Sebastian Coates to join Sunderland?

Liverpool defender Sebastian Coates is inching closer to a permanent move to Sunderland, according to a report.

The Uruguayan defender spent last season on loan at the Wearside outfit, following a dismal spell with the Reds.

According to The Express, Black Cats boss Dick Advocaat has been offered a transfer kitty of £40m to spend this summer, and he will be looking to sign the 24-year-old for a fee of around £3.5m.

Advocaat was tempted to remain at Sunderland having attained full control of the club's transfer for the summer.