Bardsley, a defender, recently returned to Old Trafford from Ibrox where he made 7 appearances for Glasgow Rangers. A bust-up with manager Paul Le Guen inevitably meant Bardsley's loan deal would have to be cut short.
The hot-prospect could be considered a small coup for Sunderland considering he has a number of suitors throughout England.
Another Manc, this time Johnny Evans - also a defender - is poised to joint he Black Cats on loan after impressing at Royal Antwerp.