Sunderland are set to officially confirm two new deals today after they completed a double move for Manchester United defenders Paddy McNair and Donald Love, with the pair undergoing a medial and agreeing terms on Wearside today.
The pair become David Moyes’ second and third signings since becoming Black Cats manager, joining Papy Djilobodji at the Stadium of Light as the Scotsman looks to reinforce his defence.
Both players will be familiar to Moyes, with the 53-year-old having had a disastrous 10-month spell in charge at Old Trafford after Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.
McNair will help solidify Sunderland’s defence and provide a versatile option for the Sunderland manager. The Northern Irish international, who can also play in central midfield, came into prominence while Louis van Gaal was in charge at United, having placed his faith in McNair during an injury crisis in the Dutchman’s first season in charge.
However, the 21-year-old saw his opportunities limited last season and only made nine appearances in total for the Reds. Despite this, he made the Northern Ireland squad for Euro 2016 and acquitted himself well as Michael O’Neill’s side made the round of 16 in France this summer.
As for Love, he will provide cover at right-back for Moyes’ side. The Scottish under-21 international was one of several youth products that was given a debut by Van Gaal last season during another injury crisis, ironically against the Black Cats on Valentine’s Day this year.
The right-back went on to make another appearance in the shock away defeat against Midtjylland in the Europa League and spent the rest of the season as a key member of the under-21 side which retained their Premier League title.
