The Black Cats agreed a loan deal with Manchester City for the Zimbabwe striker ahead of yesterday's 5pm deadline but experienced difficulties as they attempted to process the paperwork.

They advised the Football Association and Premier League of their problems and are hopeful the deal will be signed off.

A statement on the club's official website this afternoon said they were still to hear.

It read: "The paperwork was completed well ahead of the deadline but technical problems with the club's network meant that email, telephone and fax systems at the training ground were not operating properly.

"Club officials are waiting for word of a decision by the Premier League. A timescale on the decision is unknown as yet."