Sunderland are closing in on Newcastle United striker Alan Smith.

The Daily Mail says Sunderland are ready to move for £60,000-a-week striker Smith, who could be allowed to leave for free in the summer as part of much-needed cost cutting.

Newcastle are keen to lose Smith's wages after just three appearances this season. He was left out of the line-up against Arsenal and is now ready to quit.

Sunderland manager Ricky Sbragia is desperate to land the former Leeds firebrand while Blackburn and Everton may also show interest if Smith takes a substantial cut in terms.

All three see Smith's appetite for the fight as an attribute that could improve their sides - Newcastle would do well to use that themselves.