Sunderland boss David Moyes is preparing to sell Patrick van Aanholt.
The Sun says he is stepping up his search for a left-back – as Van Aanholt closes in on Crystal Palace.
Moyes has been told he can use £10m from the sale of the Dutch full-back to strengthen his Sunderland squad and add quality to his first team.
Big Sam wants to be reunited with Van Aanholt after working with him at Sunderland.
He has been targeted by Allardyce to as his priority is to find a left-back as Pape Souare is crocked.