Sunderland's League One rivals conclude ambitious deal for one-time transfer target Scott Fraser

Fraser was available on a free transfer after leaving Burton Albion earlier this summer.

His goal and assist record in League One last season marked him out as one of the division’s most sought-after midfielders, with a number of clubs across the division taking an interest.

Fraser also had interest from Scotland.

Sunderland were one of those keen on exploring the possibility of a deal, but it’s understood that the new salary cap rules, introduced in early August, meant that a deal was not feasible for either party.

Their League One rivals have been able to secure the ambitious deal after some key departures from their squad in recent times.

Striker Rhys Healey joined Ligue 2 club Toulouse for a significant fee, while midfielder Alex Gilbey joined Charlton Athletic for a free.

First-team squad members Jordan Bowery, Ben Reeves and Conor McGrandles have also left the club in the summer.

Fraser admitted it had been an ‘interesting’ summer and said the possession-based style favoured by manager Russell Martin would suit his game.

“This wasn’t the only option I had but I’ve come here because the Chairman and manager made me feel wanted and because I’m excited to part of what this Club is trying to do,” Fraser said.

“I watched the game on Tuesday and the football was brilliant to watch. Everything the manager told me to look out for before the game, I saw on the pitch. I think the style of play here will get the best out of me.

“I’m happy to get my future sorted. It’s been an interesting summer, with the offers that were coming in but there was nothing I could excited about, except here. Here, I felt wanted and saw a feel-good factor about the place. I can’t wait to get started.”

Martin conceded that he did think he would have been able to conclude a deal earlier in the summer, when interest was significant before the new cap was brought in.

“He’s a player that I’ve liked and admired for a while,” Martin said.

"He was probably one of the best midfielders that we played against last season and his goal and assist record, particularly in this division, speaks for itself.

“We went for him really early in the window but we thought he’d gotten away from us because of the interest that was in him. We’ve kept working on it and over the last few days, it became a real option for us.

“I’m excited to bring him into the squad. He’ll bring something a bit different to our midfield, especially in the final third of the pitch. We’ve rebuilt that part of the pitch this summer and I’m really happy with how it looks.”

MK Dons start their league season away at Doncaster Rovers this Saturday.