Sunderland to move for West Ham United's Stewart Downing this week?

Sunderland are reportedly ready to launch a bid for West Ham United winger Stewart Downing.

Black Cats head coach Dick Advocaat is believed to be keen to strengthen in wide areas ahead of the start of the 2015-16 campaign in August.

According to The Northern Echo, the Dutchman has identified Downing as his top target and believes that the Hammers may consider selling as they prepare for a new era under manager Slaven Bilic.

The 30-year-old is believed to have also attracted interest from his boyhood club Middlesbrough.