Sunderland are close to completing a deal for Wigan defender Titus Bramble, according to Sky Sports.
Black Cats boss Steve Bruce has been linked with several defenders this summer, including Matthew Upson, Sol Campbell and Heiko Westermann, but now looks set to raid his former employers.
Under Bruce, Bramble reignited his career at the DW Stadium following a torrid spell at Newcastle, and his reputation has continued to grow under current boss Roberto Martinez.
But the 28-year-old has only one year remaining on his current deal and Sky Sports believe Wigan are ready to cash in, having agreed a fee with Sunderland.