Crystal Palace enter Jermain Defoe chase

Crystal Palace Sam Allardyce is prepared to join the likes of West Ham United and Bournemouth in the pursuit to sign Jermain Defoe in the summer.

The England international will be available on a Bosman this summer after he had a relegation release clause attached to his Black Cats contract.

Former club West Ham and Bournemouth have been in a two-way race for the veteran striker in recent weeks, but according to The Mirror, Allardyce could look to hijack the move with a better contract offer.

The 34-year-old had fond memories with 'Big Sam' during the Black Cats' Premier League escape last term, and the manager has publicly stated that he would prefer to bring Defoe to Selhurst Park.

Defoe has managed an impressive tally of 15 league goals during the ongoing campaign, but despite this, the Black Cats are destined to finish rock-bottom on the table.

Eddie Howe's side are understood to have tabled a £18m package for a three-year contract, and the Eagles will possibly place an increased offer during the off-season.