Reports are suggesting that Sunderland could launch an audacious bid to sign Glen Johnson at their next opportunity this summer.

The full-back signed for the Anfield outfit in the summer of 2009 after impressing greatly at Portsmouth.

However, performances have slipped over recent months and Johnson has drawn criticism for coming up short when defending.

The 27 year-old is known to be helpful in attack but has become exploitable on the right flank when coming back.

Liverpool may not be too eager to sell their right-back quite yet with his contract set to run until 2015 but should the right offer come in, they may open up to his sale.

The Anfield outfit also have a considerable replacement at the club in the form of youth products, Martin Kelly and Jon Flanagan, who have both been tipped for bright futures with both club and country, despite neither having featured for the England national side yet.

Jack Robinson is another youngster capable of filling in at right-back so it’s safe to say that the Reds have ample cover in the position should Johnson leave the club.

Kenny Dalglish has always been willing to bring in the new blood with Liverpool and give them their chances to advance through first-team play.

Sunderland were limited to just loan moves during the January transfer window, signing Wayne Bridge and Sotirios Kyrgiakos on temporary deals.

That being said, the Black Cats are expected to have money to spend in the summer, with chairman Ellis Short reportedly keen to give Martin O’Neill considerable financial backing following his magnificent start to his Sunderland career.

Liverpool won’t be expecting a full return on their purchase of Johnson and may be willing to accept an offer of just £8m for their right-back who has seen a dip in performance of late.