Sunderland will have to look elsewhere to bolster their midfield options after Doncaster Rovers swooped in to sign Ethan Galbraith from Manchester United.
The 20-year-old Northern Ireland international joined Donny on a season-long loan having previously been linked with the Black Cats earlier in the transfer window.
Reports suggested that Lee Johnson's side would have to wait until August to get their man, with Galbraith playing a part in Manchester United's first team pre-season.
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However, the Red Devils youngster has made the switch to Sunderland's League One rivals.
Upon signing for Rovers, Galbraith said: "I’m delighted to be here and finally have the deal over the line, I can’t wait to get started and show what I can do.
“My agent informed me that Doncaster were interested, I played with Richie’s son at United so this was the place I wanted to come.
“I’ve been playing in the U23s at United for the past two seasons, so I feel I’m past that stage now and ready for the challenge of men’s football.”
Sunderland are well stocked in central midfield having signed Corry Evans from Blackburn Rovers and have the likes of Dan Neil to step up.
However, the Black Cats are still believed to be in the market for some extra quality.
Speaking ahead of this weekend's clash with MK Dons, Johnson said: "We are looking to bring in quality, and we will try to hold out as much as possible for that quality.
"I'm very happy with where we are getting to, and where I think we will get to, and I'm very happy with the conversations and communication we are having with various clubs and the quality [of player] that we are talking about, and that we are not too far off doing."
