Sunderland have joined the battle for Tottenham defender Michael Dawson.

The People says Tottenham defender Dawson is at the top of Martin O'Neill's wanted list as he looks to continue rebuilding his team at the Stadium of Light.

Spurs chief Andre Villas-Boas was willing to sell Dawson in the summer with QPR agreeing a £5.5m fee, only for the player to turn down the move. The 29-year-old England centre-half has earned AVB's respect and returned to the starting line-up in recent weeks, though, making him less likely to sanction a January sale.

Harry Redknapp, who enjoyed a good relationship with Dawson at White Hart Lane, is also keen to sign him.