Sunderland are locked in talks with West Ham United over a £6m move for winger Stewart Downing, according to reports.
The Black Cats reportedly had an opening offer of £5m rejected by the East London side.
However, the Daily Mail claims that Sunderland have increased their offer to £6m, and Downing is keen to move back to the North-East.
The 30-year-old has two-years left on his contract and the report suggests that the Hammers are open to a deal.
Downing played 36 times for West Ham last season.
