Sunderland have confirmed interest in free agent Lucas Neill. The former West Ham captain has been the subject of much transfer talk this off season with a move to Turkish club Galatasaray the most mooted idea but now the Black Cats have expressed their interest.

"We've had a little conversation to see where he is up to. We have just enquired to see what the situation is," said Sunderland boss Steve Bruce.

"He is extremely experienced. The attraction is that he is available on a free transfer."

Hammers manager Gianfranco Zola is still maintaining hope that the club and player can agree to a deal that would see the Australian captain remain at Upton Park.