Sunderland are pushing to sign Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott.

The People says Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill is keen to land the out-of-favour ­defender on loan and is waiting on the right time to pop the question to City manager Roberto Mancini about a deal. The Black Cats chief is already hoping to land Swedish striker John Guidetti from City and can only take one at a time from the same Premier League club.

Guidetti is a priority for Sunderland who want extra firepower - with Louis Saha possibly leaving the Stadium of Light if the right offer comes along.

However O'Neill would like to land Lescott, 30, if he becomes available for the rest of the season.