Sunderland have cooled their interest in Leeds United midfielder Robbie Gotts, according to The Northern Echo.
The website claimed last week that Sunderland had held talks with Leeds about a deal for Gotts, who is said to have interest from several English Football League clubs.
But it could be advantage Huddersfield Town, Hull City or Swindon Town now.
Sunderland have lost two of their centre-halves, Arbenit Xhemajli and Morgan Feeney, to injury recently.
That has caused the Mackems manager Phil Parkinson to change his priorities, according to The Northern Echo.
And the website adds that Sunderland – who like the rest of League One have a salary cap to adhere to this season – are no longer pursuing a midfielder ahead of Friday’s domestic transfer deadline.
Leeds failed to strengthen in Gotts’ position during the international window, despite reports they made offers for several targets, including Michael Cuisance and Jose Campana.
But the Whites can still solve their shortage by signing players currently based in the EFL, this week.
Leeds fans – what other business do United need to do before Friday?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
