Transfer News...
It looks like a second signing for SAFC could be imminent as striker Chris Maguire is due for a medical on Wearside today. The 29 year old is a Scottish international and was a former Oxford player so both the new owners and manager will be keen for this one to go through. Maguire is currently under contract with Bury and has a year left on his current deal so a nominal fee will be involved.
Maguire could be joined by AFC Wimbledon's Lyle Taylor. The club have reportedly entered advanced talks with the forward and his representatives as we look to steal a march on his many suitors. The Montserrat international scored 18 goals last season in League One and, despite not being Scottish in any way, is available on a free so it's one box ticked at least.
In other news, it looks like the deal to take want-away midfielder Paddy McNair to Boro is now back on after the clubs had agreed a fee but Boro took the huff as they thought we were touting him around to get a higher bid. SAFC owner Stewart Donald explained: “The club hasn’t accepted any bids other than from Middlesbrough. The agent is trying to see what other clubs are interested – I can’t stop that. Sunderland have done nothing wrong.We had an acceptable bid from and said you can speak to the player, nothing more nothing less.”
Meanwhile, we're looking at bringing in Hearts stopper Jon McLaughlin as we try to fill the hole left by the departure of Steele and Camp (ed - let's call it the arsehole). It'll be a welcome move as I'm sure Jon can't do any worse than the lads he's coming in to replace. He's also Scottish and available on a free to it's pretty much nailed on.
Finally, our proposed loan move for Celtic winger Lewis Morgan is looking less likely as the former St Mirren player sounds like he's staying at Celtic Park. He said: “I had a wee chat with the manager and he welcomed me and was saying what he expected of me. He wants me to really kick on in pre-season and try and get into his thoughts. I’ve always had that belief within myself anyway. I know it’s a tough task, the squad here is full of quality, and it’s going to be tough to break into it, but I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t think I could add something to the team.”