Sunderland target Wales international defender

Sunderland are reportedly ready to tempt defender James Collins away from West Ham United in January.

Black Cats boss Sam Allardyce, who saw his side go down 1-0 against Southampton last weekend, is keen on a reunion with the Wales international during the New Year transfer window.

The 32-year-old, who returned to Upton Park for his second spell with the Hammers back in August 2012, has made just five Premier League appearances for West Ham this season under new manager Slaven Bilic.

Collins, who has 45 international caps under his belt, has dropped down the defensive pecking order at Upton Park since the summer arrival of Angelo Ogbonna from Serie A champions Juventus.

Sunderland’s Allardyce is thought to be keen on bringing Collins to the Stadium of Light in January to help the club succeed in their bid to stave off relegation.