And the Sunderland goalkeeper could be pipped to a switch to the Britannia Stadium by former Black Cat Thomas Sorensen, who is training with the Potters.

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Fulop has been in talks with the Premier League new boys since the clubs agreed a fee at the end of last week.

But Stoke boss Tony Pulis has always insisted he has more than one option as he looks for competition for South Shields-born Steve Simonsen.

Sunderland manager Roy Keane expected the transfer to go through after Stoke's long-term interest in a player they had briefly on loan last season.

But Keane said last night: "Marton is struggling to agree personal terms.

"If that isn't sorted out within 24 hours, then he is still a Sunderland player and I will expect him back in training.

"It's up to Marton to get the best deal he can but if he can't then he will be back here and I will welcome him back because he's got a chance of being a top goalkeeper."