Sunderland to make fresh Stewart Downing bid?

Sunderland will reportedly step up their interest in Stewart Downing by making a fresh approach for the West Ham United midfielder.

The Black Cats are said to have already had a £5m offer for the England international rejected by his current club.

Downing has been strongly tipped for a move back to his native North-East this summer to be closer to his family, with former club Middlesbrough also thought to be interested in his services.

However, The Telegraph claims that Sunderland remain the favourites to land the 30-year-old's signature, and boss Dick Advocaat will launch another bid in the coming days.

Downing made 42 appearances in all competitions for the Hammers last season, while also earning an England recall for his promising early-season performances.