Sunderland make contact with Jagielka's representative

Sunderland are reported to have made contact with Phil Jagielka's agent in order to push through a move to Wearside before the transfer deadline.

The veteran defender has been fringes of the Everton first-team in recent months, and it is said that he would consider a move elsewhere, provided any club can match his £50,000 weekly package.

Black Cats boss David Moyes is on the search for bargain buys to bolster his defence before January 31, and former player Jagielka is among the top names in his shortlist.

Moyes had recruited Jagielka from Sheffield United back in the summer of 2007, and the two enjoyed six seasons together before the Scot opted for a fresh managerial challenge at Manchester United.

Jagielka currently has 18 months left on his previous deal, and Sunderland would need to table a fee in excess of £4m in order to convince Everton into a sale.