Sunderland legend Micky Horswill is backing their move for Hull City captain Curtis Davies.
The Tigers are keen to upgrade Davies' deal so to ward off suitors.
"Curtis is the sort of player we do need. We need experience - the players that have been in the Premiership," Horswill told Sky Sports Radio.
"In the past, we've bought players from all over the world, from France, Senegal and South America and they don't know the Premiership.
"It's a completely different meat to anywhere else in the world, and I do think you have to have some experienced players in your side that know what it's all about.
"And Davies, from Hull, although I don't think he'll leave Hull, he's the strong force in their side.
"I can't imagine Steve Bruce to let him go to be honest, and he's his captain as well. But I do think that's the sort of player we need."
