Middlesbrough are aiming to beat Sunderland for Sheffield United striker James Beattie.

Sunderland have earmarked the former England striker as a possible replacement for the injured Kenwyne Jones but Boro also want the 30-year-old to give a physical presence to their attack with doubts existing over Mido's fitness.

Sheffield United do not want to sell Beattie, who was their top scorer last season, but will find it hard to turn down bids of around £7m.