Sunderland target Billy Sharp is not interested in leaving his boyhood club Sheffield United to drop down to League One.

The Black Cats had hoped to land the 32-year old as they look to provide Jack Ross with further attacking options ahead of the new season which begins on August 4.

However, owner Stewart Donald told Roker Report that Sharp has decided to stay with the Blades in the Championship.

He confirmed that Sunderland had made an enquiry for the player, which meant Sharp spoke to key figures at Bramall Lane about his future. And, talks obviously went well with the former Leeds striker set to stay.

Sharp has been terrific for the Yorkshire side since returning to the club in 2015. In that time he has scored 64 goals in 124 games, including 30 when Chris Wilder's men ran away with the League One title.

That will force Ross to look elsewhere as he looks to add to his strikeforce. The report claims that bids have been lodged for Charlie Wyke and Mo Eisa but the former St. Mirren boss would still like another number nine through the door as well as those pair.

The Verdict

This is a blow for Sunderland as Sharp would've been an ideal signing, given how prolific he is as well as his experience and leadership.

But, it was always going to be a tough ask to bring him away from his boyhood club, particularly as he still has an important role to play there.

Yet, Sunderland do need new strikers and the club need to do all they can to close deals for Ross' targets.

Thoughts, Sunderland fans? Let us know in the comments below.