But despite ending last season in the physio room, it seems he has attracted the interest of fellow Premier League side Fulham.
Roy Hodgson's men are in need of another midfielder and Etuhu seems to fit the bill, especially after being ousted from the Sunderland side by new signing, Teemu Tainio.
Speculation also suggests that David Healy could move in the opposite direction as part of the deal. The Northern Ireland striker has been warned that first-team places will be limited in the forthcoming season.