Sunderland takeover bid led by Stewart Donald reviewed by EFL

By Keith Downie

Wednesday 2 May 2018 15:34, UK

The English Football League is currently undertaking due diligence on the consortium led by Stewart Donald after they agreed a deal to buy Sunderland, Sky Sports News understands.

Eastleigh chairman Donald and his overseas group struck a deal with Sunderland owner Ellis Short on Sunday, with the relegated Championship club announcing the news minutes after Chris Coleman's sacking.

It is understood the vetting process can often take longer when overseas investors are involved.

Donald is hopeful the takeover will be concluded quickly so he can attend Sunday's match against Wolves as he attempts to connect with the Sunderland supporters.

The 43-year-old, who has a private account on Twitter, has responded to fans on the social media platform asking for their patience as they await EFL approval.

J. Chapman, a Sunderland fan, tweeted Donald saying: "We, the supporters, have had a rough time of late, terrible on and off the pitch, with minimal communication from those in charge. Please engage with us, we're very passionate about our team and we're all quite friendly, too."

Donald replied: "Until the EFL decide on the takeover I can't really communicate but I hear what you're saying. There is no club without the fans and I am well aware of that."

Short, who gained control of Sunderland in 2008, paid off £140m of debt as part of the sale.

Donald, who has owned National League club Eastleigh since 2011, has been forced to put the club up for sale following his agreement to take over Sunderland.

"It is an emotional decision for me and one that I did not expect to have to make," he said in a statement on the club website.

"However, with my potential involvement in Sunderland, it is a condition that I must relinquish control of Eastleigh."

He added: "If the rules were different I would have loved to remain with the club for many years to come."