The newspaper alleged that Sunderland are in talks with a betting firm about sponsoring their Wearside home.
Stewart Donald has replied to a Sunderland fan on Twitter regarding a report that emerged on The Sun’s website earlier today.
The newspaper alleged that Sunderland are in talks with an energy company and betting firm about selling the naming rights to their Stadium of Light home.
It claimed to have seen recent emails the club have sent to advertising and sponsorship brokers ‘as they look for extra income’, and suggested that the Sunderland ‘Til I Die Netflix series is being used to attract would-be backers.
But Donald clarified: “We have been looking into naming rights for a while, yes. I think I have mentioned this before so not new news as such. However, I don’t believe any betting firms are in the picture at all.”
Sunderland’s ground has remained without sponsorship since it opened in 1997, replacing the old Roker Park.
Donald is previously quoted as having said: “I think the fans should have a say on whether they’re comfortable with it (selling the naming rights).
“The vibe I get is that they aren’t particularly attached to the name of the stadium.
“It’s not a sacred thing like some of the other grounds.
“I think it’s something that we could do without upsetting the fans, so from that perspective, there is potential for us to do it.”
Sunderland can climb into League One’s automatic promotion spots with a win against Burton Albion on Tuesday evening.
The Mackems are aiming to secure an instant return to the Championship, the division from which they were relegated last season ahead of Donald’s takeover of the club.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
