Sunderland Football Club have confirmed their interest in Lucas Neill.

The Australian international became available for transfer earlier this season when his contract at West Ham United expired, although he was expected to make a shock return to Upton Park.

However, the Black Cats are hoping to hijack the deal and take the 31-year-old to the Stadium of Light, as manager Steve Bruce has been quoted on skysports.com.

"We've had a little conversation to see where he is up to. We have just enquired to see what the situation is,” he said. "He is experienced. The attraction is that he is available on a free transfer."