Sunderland accept Bellion compensation

Sunderland have accepted a compensation package from Manchester United for striker David Bellion, which includes an initial £2million guaranteed fee payable immediately.

The compensation package also includes further build up payments worth up to £1million, payable on appearances and international call-ups.

A sell-on clause ensuring the Wearside club will benefit from any future transfer of Bellion has also been negotiated.

Sunderland chairman Bob Murray said: "We're happy with the package and feel that it is entirely deserved as we lost an exciting and talented young player.

"It is to the benefit of both clubs that we have been able to reach an agreement without the need for a tribunal."

The pacy Frenchman moved to Old Trafford after he snubbed the offer of a new contract with Sunderland - the original one expired in June.

United reserve-team coach Ricky Sbragia played a part in the move - he had detailed information on Bellion from his time at Sunderland, who captured Bellion from Cannes in 2001.

Bellion made just three starts for the Wearsiders, although he was used as a substitute 15 times and netted the winner in the home game against Aston Villa last season - his only goal for the club.

He has only played a peripheral role for United so far this season, although he made a goalscoring debut in the pre-season defeat of Celtic in Seattle.