Leeds and Palace join Malaga in Thornton chase

SUNDERLAND’S Republic of Ireland U21 midfielder Sean Thornton is wanted by Leeds, Crystal Palace and Spanish side Malaga.

Thornton, 22, was transfer-listed by Sunderland manager Mick McCarthy after a series of off-field indiscretions, which included missing a recent Republic U21s training camp.

Thornton’s agent, Lee Payne, has urged newly-promoted Sunderland to let him go on a free transfer rather than hold out for a fee.