Sunderland boss Roy Keane is moving for Blackburn Rovers midfielder Robbie Savage.
Savage, 33, has been upset at his lack of first team opportunities this season and is a £1.5 million target for Keane.
He has sought reassurances about his future from Mark Hughes but the Blackburn manager could not guarantee him a place and needs cash to continue upgrading his squad.
Savage has also been linked with Wigan.