Peterborough's Director of Football Barry Fry has claimed that Sunderland tried to hijack the Jason Naismith deal, despite Stewart Donald denying any interest in the player:"He was a top target of the manager and we are delighted to get the deal over the line, especially as Sunderland and Aberdeen made late moves to prise him away from us, Jason and his father turned up at our training ground on Tuesday at 10am and I locked the doors so he couldn’t escape. We got the deal done about 7pm.”
The Sunderland owner had his say on the matter:"We can’t be beaten to a signing of a player we don’t want to sign. We have plenty of targets and we haven’t lost any yet."
Stewart Donald has given another update on transfers, as he continues to be very open and honest with the fans: "I would be pretty sure at this stage of the transfer window less than 10 percent of player signings have been made - there are still lots of players on holiday and hundreds still available. The player movements will start soon I am sure. We have offers out and lots of targets!"
He has also squashed rumours of a two-year loan deal for Wahbi Kahzri to Besiktas, explaining there needs to be a fee: "Unless we get a decent fee he will be back here playing!!"
It is hoped that Sunderland get some business over the line soon, whether that be in-comings or outgoings, as there is a slight sense of nervousness as each day passes without a signing. Everyone is now keen to see the start of the Donald era and that begins with assembling a squad to push for promotion.
Carabao Cup Draw...
Sunderland will play Sheffield Wednesday at the Stadium of Light in the first round of the Carabao Cup.
These matches are scheduled to take place in the week commencing August 13.
Pre-Season Craic...
Sunderland have announced the first four of their pre-season fixtures. Jack Ross' side will travel to Darlington July 11th, Hartlepool July 14th, Grimsby July 17th and St Mirren on 21st July.
We'll likely field a number of different players in these matches for the manager to get to know his side and implement his tactics and ideas. The squad are also off to Portugal for a pre-season training camp and it is understood that they are attempting to organise a friendly there. More friendlies are expected to be announced as the season gets closer and the new squad comes together.
