Donald will meet with EFL executives on Friday about his takeover plans, according to the BBC.

The 43-year-old has agreed to sell Eastleigh as he prepares for this takeover with an agreement in place to buy the club from Ellis Short, but it requires EFL approval due to the strict rules they have in place over ownership in order to avoid clubs falling into the wrong hands.

This meeting will help move that process along as he explains his plans for the club with finances being a key part, but this is not necessarily going to be definitive so it could still be a while yet before the move is confirmed.

Sunderland finished bottom of the Championship this season, which means they have suffered consecutive relegations down to League One. This puts them in a dangerous position because of the difference in TV rights as well as the high wage budget they will have in comparison to the other teams. Parachute payments will help, but key players will probably have to be sold, regardless.

The Verdict

This is a huge moment for Sunderland's future because the fans will be desperate for a change of ownership after the slump they have suffered with Short as owner.

Donald has a good reputation from his time as owner as Eastleigh and appears to have the hands-on approach which the Black Cats will need. They need someone who can form a good connection with the fans because the club are in a dangerous place currently, so having a united club will be key as well as smart investment in the squad in ensuring they get out of League One as quickly as possible.