Blackpool have confirmed the signing of Sunderland and Ipswich Town target Luke Garbutt on their official website.
With Black Cats manager Phil Parkinson busy this summer in bringing in a number of new faces, Garbutt was linked with a move to the Stadium of Light after seeing his contract come to an end with Premier League side Everton.
The 27-year-old left Goodison Park this summer and has since gained plenty of interest, with Sunderland’s League One rivals Ipswich also said to be keen.
Despite being linked to Sunderland and Ipswich, it has now been confirmed that the defender has agreed a deal to join fellow League One side Blackpool.
Speaking to the Seasiders’ official website after his move was confirmed, Garbutt said: “I’m pleased to be here and looking forward to working under Neil Critchley. I really like what the Head Coach had to say when I spoke to him a few days ago, and he was a big factor in my move here.
“He’s spent the last few years at Liverpool and developed players really well, so I’m looking forward to what the future brings here.
“There’s big plans for this football club and I’m hopeful I can be a big part of what’s to come this season.”
Valued at £540,000 by Transfermarkt, the left-back has made a total of 72 League One appearances during his career for the likes of Ipswich, Oxford United and Colchester United.
This is a missed opportunity for Sunderland, who are seemingly keen to find a new left-back option, and it may leave fans wondering what sort of deals the Black Cats can realistically pull off over the remainder of the transfer window.
With the deadline of October 16 fast approaching, Sunderland are left still seeking a left-back option to compete with Denver Hume.
Do you think Sunderland will regret not signing Garbutt this summer? Let us know your views in the comments section below…
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