£1.7m transfer hurdle blocks Sunderland AFC player exit | OneFootball

Nazariy Rusyn spent the second half of last season on loan with Hajduk Split

Sunderland forward Nazariy Rusyn is set for a return to the club this summer due to Hajduk Split opting not to trigger a buy option in their loan deal for the player.

According to Croatian outlet Sportske Novosti, the top flight side are not willing to complete a deal to keep the Ukrainian beyond his temporary move.

Rusyn signed for the Black Cats in the 2023 summer transfer window, but has struggled for game time with the Wearside outfit.

The 26-year-old featured eight times in Régis Le Bris’ side this league season prior to his January loan move, with each appearance coming as a substitute.

Nazariy Rusyn’s Sunderland return

Rusyn is set to return to Sunderland as the club prepares for life in the Premier League next season.

It has been reported that Gennaro Gattuso’s side are not interested in triggering the option to turn his loan move into a permanent deal.

It has been claimed that the €2 (£1.7) million buyout clause is considered too much by the European club.

The forward arrived at Hajduk Split in the January market, and made 16 appearances for the side as they finished third in the Croatian top flight.

However, he failed to score from 10 starts, contributing only one assist for Gattuso’s side.

Rusyn has a contract until the summer of 2027, leaving him with an uncertain future as he makes his return to Sunderland.

Sunderland’s promotion success

Sunderland earned promotion to the Premier League in Rusyn’s absence, meaning his lack of game time in the Championship could be even further reduced.

It’s difficult to foresee the Ukrainian earning his way into Le Bris’ first team plans after an underwhelming spell away on loan.

The Black Cats will be looking to strengthen the squad in a bid to remain in the top flight beyond one campaign.

A 2-1 play-off final win over Sheffield United sealed their return to the Premier League for the first time since 2017.

Rusyn has no future at Sunderland

Rusyn was struggling for minutes prior to his loan spell and when Sunderland were still in the Championship.

With promotion now secured, it’s difficult to imagine his status within the squad improving.

It’s disappointing for the Black Cats that this buy option will not be triggered, as a £1.7 million sale would’ve been an ideal end to his time at the club.

They will now have to look for potential buyers again in the market, with another loan deal also still likely on the table.