The Mateo Bajamich transfer update that Sunderland fans didn't want to hear

The Argentinian striker, currently on the books of second division side Instituto, emerged as a shock target for Sunderland earlier in the summer transfer window.

Bajamich, 21, holds a Croatian passport and was identified as a potential option for Phil Parkinson as he looked to add some extra depth to his squad.

But a deal for the forward was always going to be tricky given the competition for his signature – with two MLS sides and some Championship clubs also monitoring Bajamich’s situation.

And it looks as if one of the MLS sides in contention for his signature, Houston Dynamo, have won the race.

Talks between the two parties had stalled over the terms of the payment, but reports in South America suggest that Bajamich will be unveiled at the BBVA Stadium shortly after Houston and Instituto reached an agreement over a deal worth $1.2million.

When quizzed on Bajamich, Houston coach Rab Tamos simply said: “Mateo is a player that we have watched a lot and that we like.”

Meanwhile, former Sunderland trialist Tyler Hamilton has joined non-league side Gainsborough Trinity.

Hamilton, a left winger, spent time with the Black Cats’ under-23 side last season following his release from Hull City – but did not earn an extended stay at the Academy of Light.

The wideman also spent time with Hartlepool United over the summer, but has now put pen to paper with the Northern Premier League outfit.

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