Mick: talks for Stead not dead!

Mick McCarthy confirmed today that he hasn't conceded defeat in his quest to sign highly-rated Huddersfield striker Jon Stead.

Sunderland bid an initial £500,000 which would increase depending upon appearances, but Huddersfield rejected the bid hoping for better offers when the transfer window re-opens in January.

But McCarthy said today that negotiations are far from over. "As people know, we have put in a bid for Jon which has been rejected, but the clubs are still talking and the situation is ongoing", he said.

"I have spoken to (Terriers boss) Peter Jackson about him several times. I don't want to say too much in case it prejudices the situation, but there is a strong link between ourselves and the player and the clubs are still in discussions."

The Huddersfield Daily Examiner newspaper reports that the Terriers' board met this morning, with Jackson reporting no change on the Stead situation and no increased offer for the player.

But rumours are circulating tonight that Sunderland are planning to offer Huddersfield Michael Proctor plus cash in return for Stead.