Decision expected soon on Hunt’s Royals future

8:59am Tuesday 24th June 2008

SUNDERLAND transfer target Stephen Hunt is expected to decide on his future when he returns to pre-season training at the start of next week.

The Reading midfielder is due to link up with the rest of his Royals team-mates on Monday, but his stay in Berkshire could be a brief one following his employers' relegation to the Championship last season.

Sunderland made three separate attempts to sign Hunt in January, with a final offer of £5m being turned down as Reading boss Steve Coppell attempted to safeguard his side's Premier League status.

The Black Cats are ready to make a renewed approach after Coppell's efforts proved unsuccessful and, while Hunt is reluctant to agitate for a move following Reading's struggles last season, the club are unlikely to stand in his way if he is offered a return to the top-flight.

Sunderland boss Roy Keane continues to rate the Republic of Ireland international highly, but the Wearsiders are unlikely to make another £5m cash offer now that Reading are in the Championship.

Their first bid is likely to be around the £4m mark, with a possible range of add-ons taking the total deal close to the £5m fee that was rejected seven months ago.

Meanwhile, Sunderland striker Roy O'Donovan is determined to prove himself on Wearside despite interest from Scottish Premier League outfit Dundee United.

O'Donovan made just four Premier League starts last season, but is keen to remain at the Stadium of Light despite sustained interest from north of the border.

"I know there was a rumour about me going to Dundee United on loan when I first came to Sunderland, so maybe that's where the story has come from now," said O'Donovan. "Nothing has been said to me about a move so I'm just looking forward to preseason with Sunderland.

"My first season (at Sunderland) was difficult. I think I improved and got more accustomed to it as time went on, but next season is a big one for me."

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