Sunderland have received a definitive blow in their pursuit of striker Joe Pigott as the 27-year-old completed a move to Ipswich Town on Monday.

The Lowdown: SAFC eye Pigott

The Black Cats were one of several clubs interested in signing Pigott from Wimbledon this summer (The News).

He enjoyed a fantastic campaign last term, netting 20 goals and providing five assists in 45 matches for the League One side (Transfermarkt), and could have been the perfect replacement for Charlie Wyke.

The Latest: Pigott moves to Ipswich

However, it has now been confirmed that Lee Johnson and co have missed out on the forward (BBC).

He has instead made the move to Ipswich, one of Sunderland's rivals for promotion from the third tier, which of course makes matters even worse.

The Verdict: Disappointing

It is quite clear that Sunderland are in real need of signing a new striker. Wyke was their top scorer last season, but he recently left on a free transfer and has now joined Wigan Athletic.

If they are not able to replace Wyke's goals, they will struggle to compete towards the top of the division.

Pigott has 94 career goals to his name - he clearly knows where the back of the net is. As we edge ever closer towards the new campaign, the pressure increases on the north-east outfit and their recruitment team to find someone who can score prolifically. Unfortunately, that man will not be Pigott.

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