Sunderland are set to challenge Tyne-Wear rivals Newcastle United in the race to sign Everton midfielder Tom Cleverley, according to the Daily Telegraph.

Sunderland are planning to strengthen their squad this month in a bid to avoid relegation and manager David Moyes is said to have made signing a new midfielder a priority.

Now according to reports, it has been claimed that Sunderland are set to challenge local enemies Newcastle for ex-Manchester United player Cleverley.

The Black Cats are hopeful of luring the England international to the Stadium of Light once Morgan Schneiderlin completes his prospected £22million move to Goodison Park from United.