Sunderland to continue compensation claim

Reports have claimed that the Black Cats had failed to offer the French midfielder a new written contract by the deadline in May, but the club are adamant they made Bellion an offer, through his agent Mike Morris, in January.

"Sunderland AFC made an offer in writing to David Bellion, which reflected his future value and potential," said a club spokesman.

"This was a much improved contract and an outstanding offer for a player of his age.

"His agent Mike Morris rejected this offer, also in writing, at the end of January. As a consequence we are now in talks with the Football League about a date for the tribunal hearing."

Bellion signed on a free transfer for Manchester Utd earlier this month but Sunderland can claim compensation because of he is only 20-year-old.