Sunderland have reportedly had their latest bid for Wigan Athletic striker Will Grigg rejected as they look to replace Josh Maja before the 11 pm deadline, according to Alan Nixon of the Sun. 

Jack Ross's side had made another late bid for the prolific forward this morning as they looked to bring in the Northern Irishman but a deal now seems very unlikely.

Grigg has fallen down the pecking order at the DW Stadium but has still managed to bag four times this season.

He has an even better record when it comes to League One football, scoring 19 and 21 goals in his last two full campaigns in the division and 96 times in total but it looks like the Black Cats will now need to look elsewhere.

So far, experienced midfielder Grant Leadbitter and young Burnley centre-back Jimmy Dunne are the only new faces to arrive at the club, with Maja the only name departing.

The verdict 

This is a huge blow for Sunderland.

Grigg, in my opinion, would have guaranteed promotion back the Championship thanks to his reliable ability in front of goal in League One.

They now need to walk away, however, and make sure they do not get held to ransom. There are other targets out there for the taking.