Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill is said to be hopeful of signing Fulham midfielder Clint Dempsey.
The 29-year-old USA international has not featured for the Cottagers this season after going on strike in an attempt to force the club to sell him to Liverpool.
Fulham have since accused Liverpool of tapping up their player and reported the Reds to the Premier League.
With Dempsey's desired move to Anfield looking increasing unlikely, Sunderland have opened talks with Fulham and the two clubs are close to agreeing a fee in the region of £8m, according to The Metro.
Dempsey, who scored 23 goals in 46 matches last season, has less than 12 months remaining on his current contract.
