Cats target Bajamich seals move after long-running transfer saga
H ou s to n D y n a m o h ave confirmed the signing of Sunderland target Mateo Bajamich – after what their general manager described as a ‘lengthy process’.
The 21-year-old emerged as a left-field target for the Black Cats as Phil Parkinson sought alternative attacking options who would be exempt from the new League One salary cap.
But it was always going to prove to be a tricky deal to conclude, with Bajamich having a number of admirers in the MLS and Europe after impressive performances for Argentinian second tier side Instituto.
And it’s Houston who have won the race for his signature in a deal worth an initial $1.2million – plus 20 per cent of the profit made on any future sale.
Sunderland’s offer, in contrast, was understood to include an initial fee around the £500,000 mark.
Commenting on the deal Houston Dynamo Senior Vice President and General Manager Matt Jordan said: “After a lengthy process, we are pleased to welcome Mateo Bajamich to the Houston Dynamo.
“Mateo is a talented young player who can create chances and score goals in the final third, while showing a willingness to put in the work defensively.
"We are confident Mateo will be in an environment with our club and our staff to develop and grow while helping the team be successful."
Houston say the deal remains subject to Bajamich receiving his Visa and International Transfer Certificate – while he will have to undergo a 14-day quarantine period before he can begin training with his new club side.
Meanwhile, former Sunderland striker Marc McNulty has snubbed a return to League One – to join Dundee United.
The 28-year-old spent the first half of last season on loan with the Black Cats but struggled for regular football following the appointment of Phil Parkinson.
McNulty spent the remainder of the campaign with Hibernian before returning to parent club Reading over the summer, only to find his path to first-team football blocked.
And reports north of the border suggest that the Edinburgh-born frontman has now joined the Tangerines on a season-long loan.
League One sides Bristol Rovers and MK Dons were reportedly keen to lure McNulty back to the third tier, but he is understood to now be on his way to Scotland for a medical.