Sunderland are in advanced talks with Everton over a deal for Aiden McGeady.
New Black Cats manager Simon Grayson worked with McGeady as he spent last season on loan at Preston North End and is keen on a reunion this summer.
The Republic of Ireland’s three-year stint with the Blues could be brought to an end as early as the end of this week with Sunderland eyeing a £2 million fee.
McGeady was crowned Preston’s player of the year after being rendered surplus to requirement at Goodison Park during Ronald Koeman’s first season in charge.
Grayson had hoped to take him back to Deepdale before he was unveiled as former Everton boss David Moyes’ successor at the Stadium of Light this month.
Sunderland’s local rivals Middlesbrough, also relegated from the Premier League, also attempted to battle for the out-of-favour winger’s signature.
Two other Everton players could also join the 31-year-old in the North East with Sunderland hoping to tie up loans for Brendan Galloway and Tyias Browning.
Like McGeady, Browning also spent last season with Preston and Grayson is keen to work with the 23-year-old again with the Championship newcomers.
Galloway endured a difficult spell on loan at West Brom and returned ahead of schedule due to a lack of playing opportunities with Tony Pulis’ side.