Darragh MacAnthony has denied Peterborough United have held talks with out-of-contract Sunderland star Luke O'Nien.
The 26-year-old had held talks with Posh according to the Peterborough Telegraph, but MacAnthony has since denied the rumours.
Given that the newly promoted Championship side have completed the signing of Josh Knight on a three-year deal, it all but ended any hopes of taking O'Nien to the Weston Homes Stadium.
Sunderland are still awaiting news on whether O'Nien will accept new terms at the Stadium of Light.
Taking to Twitter, MacAnthony replied to a concerned Black Cats fan who asked if O'Nien was on Posh's transfer wish list, by saying: "Absolutely no pal. No b*******. Firm No."
Nonetheless, the former Wycombe Wanderers midfielder is expected to accept terms and remain with Lee Johnsons side this summer.
Aiden McGeady was the first of the four out of contract quartet to commit to another season with the Wearsiders.
O'Nien is also expected to pen a new deal, however there are increasing concern over Denver Hume's future, with reports linking him to Championship side Middlesbrough with Neil Warnock an avid admirer.
Sunderland have also reportedly given up hope on keeping last season's top goal scorer, Charlie Wyke at the club, with the 28-year-old expected to sign for Celtic.
The Black Cats returned to training this week and there's growing unrest among the fanbase due to the lack of signings, but the message coming out of the club has been one of calm.
