Sunderland are reportedly hopeful of completing a January swoop for Togo international Alaixys Romao, according to L’Equipe.
The Premier League side, who were convincingly beaten 4-1 at Tottenham on Saturday, want the Marseille defensive midfielder to help the Black Cats stave off relegation this term.
The 32-year-old, who is out of contract this summer, has scored one goal in 20 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue 1 outfit this season.
Romao, who has 57 international caps for his country, would reportedly cost in the region of £1.5m.
However it is also understood that the Togo star is attracting similar interest from French rivals Toulouse and Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli Jeddah.
