SHAKERS defensive kingpin Paul Butler could be kicking off next season in a Sunderland shirt.

Chairman Terry Robinson has confirmed that the Wearsiders are interested in taking the former Rochdale man to the Stadium of Light and it's possible a deal could be concluded before the start of the new campaign on August 8.

"Sunderland have made an inquiry about Paul but haven't as yet put in a bid," the Shakers supremo said yesterday.

"They originally enquired about his availability some time ago and talks are ongoing - although we haven't discussed any fee."

It is widely known that Sunderland boss Peter Reid is a big fan of the talented Bury defender and in his frequent visits to Gigg Lane he has seen enough of him to know what a quality performer he is.

Another pointer to Butler's departure is the arrival of former Oldham Athletic and Manchester City defender Steve Redmond.

The 30-year-old utility man will be the third of Neil Warnock's trio of new signings this week along with Blackpool striker Andy Preece and Preston left-back Dean Barrick. All three will join on free transfers under the Bosman ruling.

And it's just that legislation that could force the Shakers to part with one of their prize assets. At the end of the forthcoming campaign Butler will be one of a number of star players, Chris Lucketti and Dean Kiely are others, who are at the end of their contracts.

Lucketti is understood to be high on the wanted list of Bryan Robson at Middlesbrough but it is highly unlikely Warnock would let both central defenders leave.

However, faced with the possibility of watching his top performers depart on free transfers, Warnock could be tempted to sell one of them now, a decision that is certain to be unpopular with supporters.

The Bury manager, who returns from a holiday in Cornwall this week, says he has not spoken with Sunderland or his chairman about any deal.

"It is well known that Sunderland and Middlesbrough have been watching both players," he said. "This sort of thing happens when quality players are doing their jobs right.

"I am quite sure Middlesbrough will be signing Gary Pallister, not Chris Lucketti, and I have not been told of any approach for Butler. I will be speaking to the chairman about the matter this week."

Butler moved from Rochdale for £130,000 two years ago but it would take something like ten times that amount to prise him away from Gigg Lane, bearing in mind the deal contained a sell-on clause to benefit the Spotland club.

Warnock, meanwhile, is delighted with his capture of Redmond from Boundary Park, adding: "Steve is only signing a one-year contract. It will be a challenge for him but he is a good utility player. He will add a lot of experience to our squad."

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