Sunderland could be set to make a move for out of contract Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing.
Our sister title TeessideLive report this morning that Jack Ross' side are keen to bring the former England man to the Stadium of Light.
They will face competition from Rangers and Blackburn Rovers, however, with the 34-year-old expected to attract much interest should he leave the Riverside on a free.
However, the fact Downing is settled in the North East could work in Sunderland's favour should they decide to make a move.
While Boro are still managerless, it's looking more likely that Downing won't be offered a new contract, making him a free agent when he deal expires at the end of June.
Downing made seven appearances for Sunderland during a loan spell in the 2003/04 season under Mick McCarthy as a 19-year-old, before going on to star for the Boro first team, and then West Ham.
Ross is believed to be keen to bring more creativity to the Stadium of Light for next season's promotion push, but whether he sees Downing - who will be 35 next month - as a viable option remains to be seen.
The Black Cats already have Aiden McGeady on the left-hand side of the midfield, with the Irishman one of their most consistent performers last season.
However, McGeady himself is 33, and whether he can be asked to play every game of another grueling League One season must be considered.
