The Premier League side may have to spend £8 million on a player that they do not own, according to the Sunderland Echo.
Sunderland are awaiting the outcome of a dispute which could see them pay £8 million on former loan player Ricky Alvarez due to an ongoing dispute between themselves and Inter Milan, report the Sunderland Echo.
The newspaper claims that Sunderland will find out next month whether they will have to pay the fee which was allegedly part of the Alvarez loan deal during the 2014-15 campaign, with the figure having to be spent if they maintained their top flight status, which they did.
General view – Stadium of Light Sunderland
Sunderland Echo also claims that the Premier League side are prepared to pay the price tag and have put money aside.
Alvarez has since left the San Siro and now plies his trade for Sampdoria, who he joined in January earlier this year.
Meanwhile the Daily Mail report that Sunderland believe that Inter breached the contract agreed by the two clubs, when they allegedly “hesitated” over a knee operation for Alvarez.
Ricardo Alvarez – Sunderland on the bench
The long running saga is set to come to an end on December 9, according to the Sunderland Echo who cite that date as when the hearing will take place in Lausanne, Switzerland by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Alvarez made 17 appearances during his time at the Stadium of Light in all competitions, during the 2014-15 season, scoring just one goal.
Sunderland’s Stadium of Light
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
