Craig Gardner is close to leaving Sunderland due to failing to settle in the North East after six months on Wearside.

The midfielder, who made the switch from Birmingham City in the summer, is believed to be missing his family and is eager for a switch nearer to home.

While Black Cats boss Martin O'Neill is keen on keeping hold of the 25-year-old, fellow Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers are thought to be interested in the playmaker, according to The Mirror.

Meanwhile, the ex-Aston Villa boss is believed to be searching the January transfer market for a striker, winger and midfielder.