MK Dons boss gives update on Will Grigg pursuit as Sunderland weigh up their options

MK Dons boss Russell Martin has said that he still hopes to sign Will Grigg this summer.
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Grigg returned to his former club on loan in January, after another frustrating start t the campaign on Wearside.

The move was an undoubted success, Grigg scoring eight goals as Martin’s side moved up towards the top half of the table.

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Grigg is also understood to have interest from Wigan Athletic, who have recruited ambitiously this summer following a takeover at boardroom level.

Sunderland have a big decision to make on Will Grigg's futureSunderland have a big decision to make on Will Grigg's future
Sunderland have a big decision to make on Will Grigg's future

The striker is back with Sunderland for the opening stages of pre-season and with one year on his contract, Martin has suggested that the onus is on the Black Cats to determine what terms might be acceptable.

“Griggy is back with Sunderland so it's difficult to comment on really," said Martin.

"We'd still like to do something with him.

"I've spoken to him numerous times over the summer to catch-up and to see what's going on.

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"Invariably, he'll have interest from elsewhere, but Griggy knows what we would like to do. He's now got a situation with the club where they have to decide what to do with him.

"We'll have to wait and see. Unfortunately, we're not in control with that one."

In an interview with German publication Spox earlier this summer, Grigg said that he did not know where he would be playing next season and in discussing his initial move from Wigan Athletic, hinted that he would be open to a return to the DW Stadium.

“I didn't intend to move, but when Wigan accepted Sunderland's offer, I agreed,” he said.

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"Wigan will forever be my heart club. Maybe I'll come back someday.

I don't know yet how things will continue in summer.

"But of course, if there is an opportunity to move to Germany, I would definitely be interested.”

Sunderland’s forward line is likely to be in need of a revamp this summer, with Grigg seemingly heading for a departure and Charlie Wyke also expected to leave.

Ross Stewart is expected to have a major role next season, while Aiden O’Brien is also under contract for another campaign.

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But it seems highly likely that the black Cats will have to recruit uther, with former AFC Wimbledon striker Joe Pigott one name in the frame.

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