Shrewsbury unlikely to renew their interest in Cats’ goal flop Grigg

Shrewsbury Town were one of several sides keen on striking a deal for out-of-favour Sunderland striker Will Grigg in January, only for the Black Cats to ultimately decide to keep the striker on Wearside.

And Shrews boss Sam Ricketts has confirmed that their interest in Grigg was down to a ‘one-off scenario that suited everyone’ – meaning he is unlikely to return with another bid this summer.

“I think that was a bit of a one-off scenario that suited everyone,” Ricketts said, speaking to the Shropshire Star.

“Sunderland will be different, the finances involved are very different.

"He’s a very proven goalscorer.

"But he’s not someone who you can sit here and now say is viable, especially with the salary cap now like it is.”

Grigg spoke earlier this month about his desire to prove his worth at Sunderland, with manager Phil Parkinson urging him to move to the North East in a bid to aid his cause.

The Northern Irish international joined the Cats in a £4 million move from Wigan Athletic in January 2019.

But he has struggled to reproduce the goalscoring form of his earlier career, netting just eight times in 49 appearances.

Ipswich Town, meanwhile, are closing in on a triple swoop, according to reports.

The Tractor Boys are set to clinch the signings of goalkeeper David Cornell, full-back Stephen Ward and striker Oli Hawkins.

Paul Lambert’s side were reported to be battling Sunderland for the signatures of Remi Matthews, Luke Garbutt and Danny Graham – but now look poised to complete deals for these alternative targets.

And elsewhere, Peterborough United president Darragh MacAnthony has revealed that he has been approached about producing a follow-up series to the infamous ‘Big Ron Manager’ documentary – and hasn’t ruled it out.

“We have been offered money to film a sequel to Big Ron Manager,” said MacAnthony, speaking on his ‘Hard Truth’ podcast.

“And I haven’t ruled it out, so watch this space.

“You wouldn’t see me in the dressing r oom though. I’ve never done that as even the managers who didn’t like me would admit.”