Garbutt attracting lots of interest while Gerrad praises McLaughlin

With the new League One season now just over a month away, transfer talk is continuing to dominate the discussion at the Stadium of Light.

Here, we take a look at the latest news from around Sunderland AFC – including some deal updates: Ipswich take a left-back on trial – as Luke Garbutt deal hopes fade

Ipswich Town have taken Republic of Ireland international full-back Stephen Ward on trial, as the Tractor Boys turn their attentions to alternative targets after trying to seal a deal for Luke Garbutt.

Sunderland target Garbutt was wanted on a permanent deal by Paul Lambert after an impressive loan spell last term, but this latest move is a further indication that the chances of the former Everton man returning to Portman Road on a longer-term basis are slim.

But it is far from a guarantee that Sunderland are now set to seal his signature – with no deal imminent, and a host of other clubs interested in a deal for the 27-year-old.

Meanwhile Jon McLaughlin drew praise after his Rangers debut.

The former Sunderland stopper was given a glowing report by Steven Gerrard after keeping a clean sheet on his debut for the Ibrox side.

The Scottish international helped the Gers to a 3-0 win, with Gerrard praising a ‘fantastic’ display.

“Jon has done fantastic,” he said.

"It was a really strong debut. He came for one cross he might regret coming for, but he got a clean sheet and was really positive in everything he did. I thought it was a strong performance from him.

"We have two keepers who are capable of being No.1 and that’s the way I want it."

Sunderland’s promotion rivals Portsmouth have seen an eye-catching deal stall – as a result of the introduction of the League One salary cap.

According to The News,

Pompey were keen on a deal for Blackburn full-back Charlie Mulgrew – but with terms having failed to be agreed prior to the introduction of the £2.5million cap, it is claimed that the move has now been ‘derailed’.

Portsmouth boss Kenny Jackett is believed to be looking at loan signings to supplement his squad with the view that better value lurks in that market.