Paddy McNair Leaves Sunderland for Middlesbrough

Paddy McNair Joins ‘Boro

Last week it emerged that the Black Cats had accepted an offer of £5 million for McNair; however, the potential deal soon seemed to be in doubt. The Teessiders claimed that Sunderland were still offering the player to other clubs after a bid had been accepted.

This was instantly rejected by Stewart Donald who said, “The club hasn’t accepted any bids other than from Middlesbrough. The agent is trying to see what other clubs are interested – I can’t stop that. Sunderland have done nothing wrong.”

Wanting Away

After relegation to League One, McNair advised Sunderland that he wished to leave. The midfielder has been plagued by injuries since joining Sunderland but when he has played he has impressed.

With the player not wishing to play for the club again, it was up to them to get a fair price for him. Brighton and Hove Albion were interested but would not meet the Black Cats valuation.

Stoke City was also reported to be pursuing the player but in the end, it was Middlesbrough who met the valuation and secured the players services.

McNair leaves Sunderland having played just 25 league games since joining two years ago, scoring five goals. It was hoped by the club and many fans that he would stay and rumours were that he could be made captain; however, like many others, he did not want to play League One football, even if just for one season and help the club get back into the Championship.

The Northern Irish midfielder who can also play in defence, began his career at Manchester United, signing in 2011.

He went on to play 24 Premier League games for the Red Devil’s before David Moyes signed him for Sunderland along with teammate Donald Love for £5.5 million. He has represented Northern Ireland 20 times and was part of their Euro 2016 squad.