New Sunderland manager Paul Grayson is in hot pursuit of current and former Leeds stars Rob Green and Max Gradel, according to the Sun.
The newspaper claim that ex-Elland Road boss Grayson has had a loan-to-buy bid for winger Gradel rejected by his club Bournemouth.
The Sun report that Sunderland have also identified veteran goalkeeper Green as a contender to replace Jordan Pickford, who joined Everton for £30million last summer.
It is said that Grayson is keen to land the proven pair as he looks to secure the signings who can restore the Black Cats to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
Sunderland are attempting to take advantage of the desire of Gradel, 29, to leave Bournemouth after two frustrating seasons in which he has had little opportunity to justify the £7million fee that took him to the club in the summer of 2015.
But Grayson is well aware of his capabilities after managing him at Leeds during his memorable two-year spell from 2009 to 2011.
Bournemouth are reportedly keen to sell the Ivorian on a permanent deal and knocked back Sunderland’s offer of a season-long-loan with the option to buy for £2.5million.
Meanwhile, Green’s future at Leeds is in doubt following the recent signing of German goalkeeper Felix Wiedwald on a three-year contract.
Green, 37, made a huge impression during his debut campaign but is out of contract next summer and his place in the pecking order under new manager Thomas Christiansen could become clear during pre-season.
Marco Silvestri and Bailey Peacock-Farrell are also on Leeds’ books but the latter is expected to go out on loan.