Derby County are understood to be interested in Sunderland defensive-midfielder, Liam Bridcutt.
Bridcutt, 26, joined the Black Cats in 2014 for £2.5-million from Brighton when Gus Poyet was in charge at the Stadium of Light.
The Scottish international featured 18 times last season, but with no appearances after Poyet left, it looks likely that he is not in the plans of Dutchman, Dick Advocaat.
The Chelsea academy graduate failed to make a first-team appearance at Stamford Bridge but he spent time on loan in his days at the Pensioners at Yeovil Town, Stockport County, and Watford before leaving in 2010 to join Brighton & Hove Albion, who at the time were managed by Gus Poyet.
In both the 2011/12 season and 2012/13 season, Bridcutt won the Brighton & Hove Player of the Year award leading to much speculation about his future at the AMEX.
In January 2014, Poyet was the Head Coach at Sunderland and completed a deal worth around £3-million for the midfielder. Sunderland are believed to be willing to take a £1-million hit and accept £2-million as Advocaat looks to build his own identity.
Other transfer news
The Rams have already made six summer signings but are looking for more players as head coach, Paul Clement looks to take County to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
According to reports, Derby are going back to Burnley with another bid for the Clarets captain, Jason Shackall. It is believed East Midlands side have already had a £2-million bid rejected for Burnley's stand out performer in the Premier League.
The reports come just after Derby completed the £4.75 million acquisition of Tom Ince, which left Hull manager, Steve Bruce furious.
Derby building a formidable side
Derby County are clearly showing ambition and drive to achieve promotion to the Premier League. With six signings already and many more in the pipeline, it will take a lot to compete with County next season. With an ambitious coach in Paul Clement, the Rams are certain to be one of the favourites for promotion next term.