Ipswich Town striker Connor Wickham is set to undergo a medical at Sunderland.
PA Sport says the Black Cats have moved swiftly after submitting a formal offer in excess of £8million for the 18-year-old and plan to carry out the checks as soon as possible.
In addition, Birmingham midfielder Craig Gardner is due on Wearside on Wednesday for talks with manager Steve Bruce hoping for a major double breakthrough.
Sunderland have made significant progress in the last 24 hours as they attempt to persuade England Under-21 international Wickham that his future lies at the Stadium of Light.
Liverpool are also keen - and Wickham favours a move to Anfield - but Sunderland have been the first to make a concrete move for the teen.
