Sunderland boss Roy Keane has opened talks with West Brom over a £5 million deal for fullbacks Paul McShane and Paul Robinson.

A source close to West Bromwich told the Mail on Sunday: "Sunderland have been given permission to have talks and the players are in the North-East now."

It is believed Albion are also looking for a player-exchange as part of the deal and Republic of Ireland striker Stephen Elliott has been suggested.