Sunderland and Blackburn Rovers set to be beaten by rivals for ex-Dortmund attacker's signature

Sunderland had also been linked with an agreement for the attacker, with Blackburn Rovers and Anderlecht also said to be interested. The Black Cats missed out on Troy Parrott on Monday with the striker moving to Preston North End.

And Football Insider state that Sheffield United are set to win the race to sign Khadra in another transfer blow to the Wearsiders and their chances of securing another attacker before Sunday’s opening day clash against Coventry City.

The 21-year-old spent the last season on loan with Blackburn scoring five goals and registering four assists in 27 appearances.

The Black Cats have so far concluded permanent deals for Leon Dajaku, Dan Ballard, Aji Alese and Jack Clarke and have also secured the long-term futures of Lynden Gooch, Bailey Wright and Patrick Roberts.

However, there is still work to be done in the market with Sunderland in need of further reinforcements in multiple positions ahead of the club’s return to the Championship.

Sunderland are understood to have contacted Everton regarding a potential Wearside return for Nathan Broadhead and were thought to have multiple attacking irons in the fire after identifying Khadra and Parrott for potential loan deals this summer. However, both targets have slipped through the net.

Reports state that Sheffield United have indeed won the race for Khadra and a full agreement is now in place to bring Brighton’s ex-Borussia Dortmund attacker to Bramall Lane ahead of the season.