Queens Park Rangers, Sunderland pursue James Collins

Queens Park Rangers and Sunderland are battling to sign Aston Villa centre-back James Collins, according to Sky Sports News.

The 28-year-old's future has been the subject of much speculation as he has entered the final 18 months of his deal at Villa Park.

Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill has targeted Collins after managing the Wales international during his time in charge at Villa, while QPR boss Neil Warnock has made signing a defender his number one priority this month.

It is believed that Villa chief Alex McLeish will only allow Collins to leave if he can identify a replacement.