West Ham United 'reject Sunderland offer for Stewart Downing'

West Ham United have reportedly rejected a £5m bid from Sunderland for Stewart Downing.

Black Cats boss Dick Advocaat is expected to follow up with an improved offer for the 30-year-old, The Mirror claims.

West Ham are said to be closing in on Marseille's £17m-rated midfielder Dimitri Payet, a signing that could make Downing surplus to requirements.

Advocaat is reportedly monitoring the situation and planning to table another bid if Payet joins the Hammers.

Sunderland have also been linked with Fenerbahce striker Moussa Sow, who has one year remaining on his contract with the Turkish club.