AMSTERDAM – English Premier League outfit Sunderland have now seen one transfer offer for AZ Alkmaar forward Jozy Altidore knocked back before quickly following up with a second, MLSsoccer.com has learned.
Sources close to Black Cats manager Paulo Di Canio recently told MLSsoccer.com that he was intent on landing the US strike star. For now, the former EPL forward has the playing field to himself, as AZ technical director Earnie Stewart revealed that he had received no competing bids at this time.
"We've rejected one offer [from Sunderland]," former USMNT ace Earnie Stewart told MLSsoccer.com on Friday afternoon. "But we are still talking with them."
READ: Sunderland table official offer with AZ Alkmaar for USMNT striker Jozy Altidore
Meanwhile, multiple sources have indicated that previous suitors such as Fiorentina, Lazio, Napoli and Schalke have all dropped away, at least for the time being. Altidore still has interest from another Premier League side and a few clubs in Germany, according to his agent.
The 23-year-old, who has two years remaining on his AZ deal, continues to maintain that he would have no problem remaining with the Cheese Farmers for another season. If he does stay with the club, they will open the new campaign together with a July 27 duel away to rivals Ajax in the Johan Cruyff Schaal, the Dutch version of a Super Cup.
