Sunderland forward Nazariy Rusyn has reportedly rejected the chance to join Aberdeen on loan, with the Ukrainian opting against the move to Pittodrie.

The 26-year-old has been largely shut out of Regis Le Bris' plans for the English Championship outfit this term, making just eight cameo appearances this season, as reported by the Sunderland Echo.

Speculation has mounted over the player's future at the Stadium of Light, with Le Bris hinting at a possible exit, but a report from Zorya Londonsk suggests that Rusyn passed up the chance to leave the Black Cats this month.

READ MORE: Aberdeen's Scottish Cup clash with Dunfermline handed live TV coverage

READ MORE: Jimmy Thelin vows to bring the best out of Jeppe Okkels during Aberdeen loan spell

Aberdeen are said to have been "eager and quite close" to signing the forward on loan, but according to the outlet a deal ultimately fell through after the player himself rejected the move.

Join our Aberdeen FC Facebook group for all the latest Dons news

They also stated that the attacker is "currently considering other options" after playing little over an hour of football for Sunderland this season.

Aberdeen are said to be among a number of clubs credited with interest in Rusyn, as earlier in January it was reported that Ukrainian side FC LNZ Cherkasy were in "talks" over a prospective transfer.

Sign up to our Aberdeen F.C newsletter to get the latest headlines, transfer news and more sent to your inbox

Rusyn signed for Sunderland from Zorya Lugansk on a four-year contract in 2023, but it has been a largely unimpressive spell in the north-east.

Since putting pen to paper, he has failed to establish himself as a first team regular, and has recorded just two goals and an assist across 32 outings in all competitions.

His only start of the current campaign came in August’s Carabao Cup defeat at the hands of Preston North End.