Sunderland AFC transfer news: Ex-loanee reacts after joining League One club in reported £1.5m deal

Reports have suggested, however, that Ipswich Town have paid Everton a seven-figure fee in the region of £1.5million for the 24-year-old former Sunderland loanee.

Broadhead returned to Everton earlier this week following his loan move at Wigan Athletic being cut short after it was revealed by The Echo that the striker was seeking a permanent move.

The Welshman netted 13 times in 27 appearances in all competitions for Sunderland in League One last season as the club were finally promoted to the Championship.

Broadhead was keen on a move back to the Stadium of Light should, and although Sunderland were aware of their former loanee’s situation, it looks likely they have moved on to other targets.

“I want to help this team get promoted and score goals in the process,” Broadhead said following his move to Ipswich Town.

“Looking at it from the outside, it’s clear that Kieran McKenna has the team playing some really good football, and that’s something that made me want to come here.

“Under him the team is going places and I will work hard to help.

“I’ve played at Portman Road as an opposition player and it was a hostile place playing for the other team – it was one of the toughest games of my career [last season for Sunderland against Town] so far and was very intense. I’m looking forward to being part of it this time in front of the fans.”