Sunderland reportedly pull out of the race for prolific Championship attacker

Stadium of Light

According to reports, Sunderland have pulled out of the race to sign Derby County striker Chris Martin.

The Black Cats reportedly had a deal in place with the Rams but pulled out of a deal after the player delayed making a decision.

The Black Cats are desperately looking to bring in a new striker to their side this month after losing top scorer Lewis Grabban who returned to his parent club Bournemouth.

Chris Coleman’s side are now said to be pursuing other targets and have been linked with Kyle Lafferty of Scottish club Hearts as well as promising Manchester City starlet Lukas Nmecha.

Speaking during his pre-Birmingham City match conference, Black Cats boss Coleman said: “We are 99% certain there will be one between now and Wednesday,” he said. “The game is tomorrow, so with respect for the player and club he is at there is nothing we can say.

“Everything is agreed, but that won’t happen until Wednesday morning, subject to medicals etc. I would imagine there will definitely be one and hopefully two.”