Advisors of Sunderland co-owner Juan Sartori hold discussions over investing in a new club

Sartori, who owns a 20 per cent stake in the Black Cats, has not been seen on Wearside since the opening day of the season – despite promises he would become a more visible presence at the Stadium of Light this year.

Having been elected as a senator last year, the 39-year-old is now spending much more time in his homeland.

But he has made no secret of his desire to invest further in the footballing world, having previously attempted to purchase Oxford United.

And Miguel Gimenez, president of Uruguayan second division side IASA, confirmed that they had held talks with Sartori’s advisors over the businessman investing in the club.

IASA, who are based in Sartori’s home town of Montevideo, are ‘open’ to further discussions, according to Gimenez.

He told radio show Por La Raya: “I had a meeting before all this coronavirus happened with some of Juan Sartori’s advisors who had the intention of seeing the situation of IASA.

“It was the only thing that was talked about, but we are open to continue talking.”

Earlier this week, Sartori spoke to the Uruguayan press about his desire to find Sunderland a Uruguayan feeder club.

“I would love for Sunderland to have an affiliated club in Uruguay.

“I studied a number of Uruguayan clubs to be able to do it, but due to lack of time I could not complete that project.

“I will surely end up doing it.”

Sartori’s role at Sunderland has come under increasing scrutiny over the past week and the Echo quizzed the club on a number of issues including why Sartori has not been more visible and engaged.

Owners Madrox told the Echo: “Whilst Madrox is the owner of Sunderland AFC, Juan is fully committed and more involved than ever in the running of the club.

“He has been delayed in a proposed move to London but Juan is expecting to spend more time in England and as a result will be more visible in the future once this happens.”

There were also national reports on Friday that alleged Sartori paid just £1 for his shares in Sunderland. Madrox responded: “Juan Sartori has invested millions of pounds into Sunderland and has done so via Madrox on an interest free, debt free basis to the same proportion as the other investors.”