Sunderland FC showing interest in Dundee star Craig Wighton

English Premier League outfit Sunderland are keeping tabs on Dundee’s prize asset Craig Wighton.

The 17-year-old striker is on loan at Brechin and made his starting debut at the weekend for Ray McKinnon’s side.

He produced a sparkling display with a superb assist for his new club’s second goal in the derby win over Forfar.

The Black Cats had a representative in the stands watching the game and they also intend to run the rule over Wighton when City play Ayr this weekend.

Sunderland see Scotland as a potentially lucrative market to tap into and last season tried unsuccessfully to lure Dundee United teenager John Souttar to Wearside.

Meanwhile, Courier Sport understands that Southampton have not made a bid for Wighton.

A report yesterday suggested that the Saints had tabled a “substantial six- figure” offer after having him watched by their scouts.

However, The Courier has learned that no bid has been made by Southampton for Wighton.