SUNDERLAND have pulled out of a deal for Nicolas Lombaerts after identifying problems with the Belgium international's medical on Wearside yesterday.

The Black Cats had agreed a fee of around £5m with Zenit St Petersburg, and Lombaerts was given permission to travel to Wearside to agree personal terms and undergo a medical test.

Rumours emerged yesterday suggesting there was a problem with Lombaerts' medical, but as of last night, senior club officials were still insisting the deal remained on the table.

However, with Dick Advocaat's side playing the opening game of their North American tour in the early hours of this morning, it has subsequently been confirmed that the club have withdrawn their interest in Lombaerts.

It is understood that the 30-year-old's medical has revealed a knee problem, and Sunderland's medical staff are not prepared to take a risk despite Lombaerts having played in the majority of Zenit's matches since the turn of the year.

The club will now pursue alternative options, although they are not expected to rekindle their interest in former target Virgil van Dijk.

In more positive transfer news, Jeremain Lens is expected to travel to Wearside in the next 24 hours to complete his move from Dynamo Kiev.