Brighton and Stoke City are alerted after Middlesbrough pulled out of a deal for Paddy McNair.

Evening Gazette says Boro have dramatically pulled out of the chase to sign Sunderland defender Paddy McNair.

A mooted £5m move for the former Manchester United man has been scuppered after a breakdown between the clubs.

Riverside chiefs believed they were close to signing the midfielder but have grown frustrated that Black Cats bosses seemed to be still inviting bids after a fee was agreed.

Stoke City now look favourites to snap him up, while Brighton are also keen after having an offer turned down earlier this month.