Sunderland manager, Phil Parkinson, says a deal for Rangers midfielder Greg Docherty is still possible, as quoted by the Sunderland Echo.
The 23-year-old has been tipped to head south of the border for a loan spell, and the Black Cats were initially favourites bring him in [Scottish Sun].
However, earlier this week, it was reported that there had been a hitch in negotiations and that Charlton Athletic were now leading the race [Scottish Herald].
Parkinson hasn’t given up hope, though, claiming that Docherty is one of several live targets.
“Greg is one of a number of players we are looking at in that position, we have made contact with Rangers,” he said, as quoted by the Sunderland Echo. “We are weighing up all of our options.”
“We will sit down after the weekend and see where we want to go. Greg has other options as well.”
“It is not completely dead. At this stage there are many players we have spoken to, club and agents wise, some names come out, some don’t. Greg is one of those.”
Verdict
This is an interesting update from Parkinson, with previous reports suggesting an impasse in negotiations.
His comments confirm once more that Docherty is a player in demand, with several English clubs competing for his signature.
However, with time ticking by, it’s important that something is sorted out sooner rather than later.
Naturally, it’s important to find the right club, but the priority here is getting Docherty out of Ibrox and playing football.
Gerrard has only had positive things to say about him, but he’s simply not in the manager’s plans, failing to make a matchday squad since August.
Another six months kicking his heels at the Hummel Training Centre would benefit no one, so with just a week left in the window, it’s time to get a deal finalised, whether that be with Sunderland, Charlton or another EFL side.
