Sunderland are reportedly chasing West Ham United defender James Tomkins.
New Black Cats boss Sam Allardyce, who signed a two-year to replace Dick Advocaat at the Stadium of Light last week, is eying a reunion with the English centre-half during the January transfer window.
The 26-year-old, who represented Great Britain at the London 2012 Olympic Games, has scored twice in 12 appearances in all competitions for the Hammers this season.
With Sunderland joint-bottom after leaking 18 goals during their opening eight league games, the most conceded in the Premier League, manager Allardyce wants to strengthen his backline by acquiring Tomkins’ services.