Sunderland striker Will Grigg has turned down an opportunity to join League Two side Salford and Bradford City, according to reports tonight.
They report that the Northern Ireland international, who has scored eight times for the Black Cats since joining from Wigan 12 months ago, was reluctant to drop down a level.
Manager Phil Parkinson confirmed that he had held talks with Grigg over his future on Wearside, with the striker failing to live up to his £3m pricetag following his big move in 2019.
But Sunderland would only allow him to leave provided Parkinson was happy he had replaced him in his squad.
The former Bolton boss is looking to bring two more players to the club before deadline day, but admitted any more moves hinged on other clubs buying replacements first, with the possibility of no new additions before Friday night's deadline.
Bradford have allowed former Sunderland striker to join Tranmere on loan, but have not been able to persuade Grigg to head to Valley Parade.
On Grigg, Parkinson said: "I wouldn't say it is 100 per cent that something will not happen for Will in the window, but at the moment it hasn't," said Parkinson.
"Will and I have had a good chat this week and if nothing happens, he is happy to stay here and fight for his place and make a contribution.
"But equally, if someone comes in for him and we can get another player in and it suited all parties...
"If the window closes and Will is still with us, that's great, he'll get on with it and make sure he contributes between now and the end of the season.
"If something comes up and we feel we can get somebody else in, we'll also look at that.
"We have had phone calls about Will because he has a proven track record."
Sunderland take on Tranmere Rovers tonight - and you can follow all the latest as it happens
