Black Cats move for McCartney

Defender in line for shock Sunderland return

Last updated: 1st September 2008

George McCartney

McCartney: Linked with Sunderland return

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Sunderland have made a beat-the-deadline move to sign West Ham defender George McCartney, skysports.com understands.

McCartney has been chased by the Black Cats all summer, but the Northern Ireland rejected their overtures to pledge his future to Upton Park.

Sunderland boss Roy Keane is keen to bring in one more new signing before the closure of the transfer window as he looks to solve his problematic left-back quandary.

The 27-year-old arrived at Upton Park from the North East club in 2006 in a swap deal with Clive Clarke and he quickly established himself in East London.

McCartney recently signed a new deal at Upton Park, but Sunderland are hoping to persuade West Ham to do business with a big-money offer.

It is believed McCartney is currently on Wearside undergoing a medical as Sunderland look to tie up a deal before midnight.