Stewart Donald stated last month that he was hopeful of finding a buyer ready to take over Sunderland by the end of February, and a new update suggests he may be close to achieving that aim, albeit a touch later than he hoped.BBC Radio Newcastle journalist Simon Pryde has spoken with the Black Cats’ owner and reports that there are several parties interested in purchasing the club.They are currently undergoing a due diligence process and if successful that means they will be in a position where they are able to take over control of the club.

Donald has previously spoken about his asking price of the club, which could change depending on the outcome of the current season, and if Sunderland are promoted or not.

The interested groups have not been disclosed but parties from across the globe have been linkedÂin the past, as well as Mark Campbell, who made an unsuccessful bid to take over Scottish outfit Falkirk at the end of last year.

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It will be interesting to see how the ownership bid gathers pace over the course of what’s left in the season, though it is perhaps unlikely that Donald will agree to anything until he knows which division Sunderland will be competing in next term.

Nevertheless, this is a positive update and one that means the fans who called for Donald to leave in December may get their wish.

Meanwhile, Sunderland fans have been discussing a January signing and stating their hopes for him before the season is up…