Sunderland are reportedly making progress in securing a loan move for Lens' defensive midfielder, Salis Abdul Samed. According to French outlet L'Equipe, talks between the Black Cats and the Ghanaian international are moving in a positive direction. Samed, who was previously on the radar of Saint Etienne, appears set to head to the Stadium of Light, with Sunderland stepping in ahead of the French club. Saint Etienne, in response, shifted their focus to Pierre Ekwah. The 23-year-old midfielder featured in 35 matches for Lens last season but has yet to make an appearance in the current campaign.