SUNDERLAND AFC owner Stewart Donald hit back after George Evans allegedly delayed signing for the League One side in case a Championship side came in for him.

Royals had agreed a fee with the Black Cats for the 23-year-old midfielder, who can also fill in at centre back if required.

However, reports of Derby County being interested in the former Manchester City schoolboy appear to have delayed Evans' decision.

And Donald launched a rant on social media after a deal for a player, who is understood to be George Evans, stalled.

He wrote: "We r trying hard. EG - we agree a fee 4 a player & personal terms. We want him Monday to come & sign but he now says he wants to see if he can get a move to Championship.

"Fair enough but we were committed to pay money to sign him."

Donald also suggested the deal is not completely dead in the water, adding: "It will happen - I am frustrated too."

Evans was even left out of Reading's squad in their final pre-season game against Rubin Kazan in Austria.

And Sunderland fans also fumed at the deal not going through.

Supporters wrote on social media: "Good. We don't need players like that."

"If George Evans doesn't want to grab the chance to play for SAFC we should ditch the deal. We have had too many waiting to see if something better comes along. Set a deadline for Tuesday & after that pull the offer."

"If he doesn’t get his move and decides he wants to join us tell him he can but for 25 per cent less wages than the original offer."

Evans faces tough competition in midfield under Paul Clement next season.

He has to compete with the likes of John Swift, Liam Kelly, David Meyler, Dave Edwards and Leandro Bacuna.

With less than a year remaining on his current contract, Royals accepted a bid for his services, despite not actively looking to sell the 23-year-old.

Reports suggest that Derby County, who Royals face at Madejski Stadium on August 3 (8pm ko, live on Sky) are weighing up an offer.

Reading have a rest day today but will return to Hogwood Park tomorrow to continue their pre-season preparations.

They face Premier League side Crystal Palace on Saturday.