Sunderland youngsters have had a successful history when it comes to National League moves, and the next player is in line to make the switch in the coming days.
In recent season’s, the likes of Ben Crompton (Tamworth), Ethan Moore (Gateshead) and Zak Johnson (York City) have all made moves to the National League and succeeded, with the latest player appearing close to following suit.
Gateshead are now under the management of former Black Cats midfielder Lee Cattermole, following the departure of Rob Elliot earlier this summer after retaining their National League status after completing their great escape.
Their retained list has also been confirmed, allowing the club to press ahead with their plans for the 2026/27 National League campaign, with their first signing appearing to be right around the corner.
Gateshead closing in on first summer signing
The Heed narrowly avoided relegation last season and have already said goodbye to several players including George Shelvey, Louis Storey and Will McGowan.
Following Tamworth’s double signing and Wealdstone’s addition of Joe Newton – Gateshead are now one of the few National League sides that haven’t made a signing so far this summer.
However, according to reports on Wednesday afternoon – Gateshead are set to break their duck in the coming days.
As reported by journalist Pete O’Rourke, Gateshead are closing in on the permanent signing of Sunderland Academy defender Thomas Lavery, following the expiry of his contract.
The 20-year-old finished the 2025/26 season on loan with fellow National League side Halifax Town – making nine appearances across all competitions and scoring his only goal during a 2-2 draw with Rochdale in February.
He also spent the first half of the season in Northern Ireland with Cliftonville FC, which was his first taste of men’s first-team football.
What does this signing tell us about Gateshead’s transfer plans?
Lavery has first-team experience in the National League already and has scored at the level – making this slightly different from a usual Academy acquisition.
Similarly, the 20-year-old’s best position at present is a right-back, which could suggest that captain Kenton Richardson may be departing the football club this summer.
Richardson is currently out of contract with the National League side and the addition of Lavery could suggest that he is opting against extending his stay with the club.
Equally, Lavery being a young player could also suggest that he’s a back-up option for Richardson who may extend his stay for another season and retain his captaincy.
The signing itself isn’t too different from the usual calibre of youngster that Gateshead target – but it does suggest the club may either be sourcing a Richardson replacement or simply focussing on ensuring their defensive options are stronger, making sure that history doesn’t repeat itself next time around.
