HARROGATE TOWN are leading the race to sign Jack Diamond, but Sunderland are assessing a number of different options for the midfielder ahead of tomorrow night’s transfer deadline.

Diamond will be leaving Sunderland on loan, with Lee Johnson having admitted that a move away from Wearside is the best thing for the youngster’s development.

While Diamond performed creditably in last week’s Carabao Cup win at Blackpool, he did not even make the 18-man matchday squad for Saturday’s league win over Wycombe.

Two seasons ago, the 21-year-old had a successful loan spell at Harrogate, with his performances helping the North Yorkshire club to win promotion from the National League.

Harrogate boss Simon Weaver would love to re-sign Diamond ahead of tomorrow night’s 11pm deadline, and Sunderland officials are understood to have received a formal loan offer from the Envirovent Stadium.

However, a number of other League Two clubs have also lodged an interest in signing the midfielder, and Johnson is currently assessing where he feels is the best destination for Diamond.

Will Grigg is also expected to move on ahead of tomorrow’s deadline, with Doncaster officials involved in advanced talks over the Northern Irishman.

Grigg’s departure could pave the way for Sunderland to bring in a new forward of their own, with Johnson also hoping to sign a new full-back and potentially another goalkeeper before the transfer window swings shut.

Arsenal youngster Ryan Alebiosu remains the preferred option at full-back, while the Black Cats continue to be linked with a possible move for their former goalkeeper Vito Mannone, who is currently struggling for game time at Monaco.