Sunderland AFC transfer round-up: Will Grigg turns down Salford City move as deadline day approaches

The Ammies are one of a number of EFL clubs believed to be interested in the Northern Ireland international, whose last first-team appearance for the Black Cats came off the bench in a 1-1 draw against Blackpool on December 14.

The 28-year-old joined Sunderland last January for a league record £4m. But Grigg has failed to make the desired impact at the Stadium of Light with just five goals in 37 League One appearances over the past 12 months.

Salford were believed to be the front runners to sign the out of favour forward, who is believed to have rejected a move back to the north west, according to BBC Sport.

It is understood that the Grigg does not want to drop another division while Sunderland are reluctant to sell to a League One rival.