Sunderland are preparing a £7 million bid for West Ham United defender Matthew Upson.

The News of the World says Black Cats manager Steve Bruce has identified a commanding centre-half as his key signing this summer.

And in the 31-year-old Upson he believes there is a player with the Premier League and international experience to make Sunderland a top 10 contender next season.

Upson is ready to leave Upton Park and new owners David Gold and David Sullivan have admitted everyone bar Scott Parker is available.

Sunderland will offer a fresh challenge at a club that has the ambition to tempt the England squad member.

And as they proved in the signing of Darren Bent, they have the finance to land big players. Bruce will offer incoming Upton Park boss Avram Grant former West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand as part of the deal.