Sunderland have reportedly made an approach for Manchester United forward Dimitar Berbatov.
The 31-year-old Bulgarian, whose current contract expires in June 2013, is unlikely to feature for the Red Devils much this season.
He is behind Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie and Danny Welbeck in the Old Trafford pecking order and United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is said to be willing to accept offers in the region of £5m for his departure.
Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill contacted Ferguson to discuss a deal for Berbatov yesterday, according to The People.
It is understood that O'Neill is happy to meet United's asking price, however the player's wage demands may prove to be a difficult obstacle to overcome.