Report: Sunderland want Marc Wilson

Sunderland are reportedly interested in signing Stoke City defender Marc Wilson when the January transfer window opens for business.

The Black Cats are said to be close to securing the signature of Lorient centre-back Lamine Kone as Sam Allardyce looks to put together a squad capable of escaping the bottom three in the Premier League.

According to the Daily Mail, however, that is not the end of Sunderland's business and they will also target a move for Wilson next month.

The 28-year-old has been with Stoke since 2010 and is fast closing in on 150 league appearances for the Potters.

However, the Republic of Ireland international has struggled for regular action this season and it is understood that he could seek pastures new in the winter transfer window.

Wednesday's 1-0 home defeat to Liverpool left Sunderland 19th in the Premier League table, seven points from safety with exactly half of the season remaining.