Defensive duo locked in talks

The Black Cats have had an £8m bid accepted for England U21 international Ferdinand, whilst Mikael Silvestre mulls over a move to the Stadium of Light after Manchester United granted permission to speak to the Frenchman.

Both players are to decide on their futures in the coming days, but latest reports suggest that Arsenal have entered the race for Silvestre.

Meanwhile, David Healy looks set to join in a swap deal with Dickson Etuhu and Danny Higginbotham could be on his way to Wolves.