Sunderland have been handed a major boost in the race to sign Luke Garbutt with League One rivals Ipswich Town agreeing a deal with free-agent Stephen Ward instead, according to Anglian publication TWTD.
While the Black Cats have a long way to go if they are to reinforce a problem position with arguably the best left-back in League One last season, one major hurdle has been cleared on Friday afternoon.
The Northern Echo report that Sunderland have offered a contract to Garbutt, a 26-year-old set-piece specialist who is a free agent after time as an Everton player came to an end.
Ipswich boss Paul Lambert had made no secret of his desire to sign the one-time Leeds defender on a permanent basis after an outstanding loan spell at Portman Road in 2019/20.
“I think he has an incredible left foot and he puts incredible balls into the box and his delivery is fantastic,” Lambert told EADT of a man who produced six goals and three assists, not to mention some stunning free-kicks, last season.
“Technically he’s a gifted footballer and his set plays are excellent.”
But with Ward agreeing a deal that will see him move to Ipswich on a free transfer at the age of 34, TWTD reports that the Tractor Boys will now bow out of the race for Garbutt.
They have neither the need, nor the funds, to bring in two proven left-backs.
The door has just swung ajar for Sunderland then; providing the salary cap imposed by the EFL does not restrict their ability to make Garbutt their third summer signing after Bailey Wright and Aiden O’Brien.
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