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MSD Partners' takeover of Sunderland is OFF.

That is according to the Sun who claim the American businessmen are pulling the plug on their deal to buy the Black Cats from owner Stewart Donald.

The group, led by Glenn Fuhrman, John Phelan and Robert Platek and backed by Michael Dell - owner of Dell Computers - have spent a month trying to complete a takeover of the club.

But after completing due diligence, the report claims the Americans felt the club was overvalued and doubted whether they had as many assets on the academy side as they were led to believe.

It is also claimed that the figures initially discussed changed after queries raised by the Americans' legal team.

Donald, who wanted to remain a key figure at Sunderland in the event of any takeover, is now on the lookout for fresh investment according to report.

The Sun also claim that despite being under pressure to sack Jack Ross, it would prove a 'costly exercise' to remove the Scot from his position as Sunderland manager.

The former St Mirren boss has come under fire after an indifferent start to the season.