Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill has revealed that the club's attempts to sign new players have stalled as he tries to add to the Black Cats squad.
O'Neill also said that he is still hopeful of making a few signings before Sunderland begin their Premier League season against Arsenal on Saturday, August 18.
He said: "We have made some bids for players, and we are obviously in negotiations with the football clubs at this moment.
"It seems to have stalled somewhat on all fronts, but I am hoping to improve the team, we have to give ourselves some sort of chance for next season.
"In an ideal world, I would like the players in so they could do some work before we play against Arsenal. If that's not the case, then we will work exceptionally hard to try to get the players in before the end of the month."
Sunderland have been linked with moves for a number of players, including a £10m bid for Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Steven Fletcher.
