Sunderland are planning a surprise £4million swoop for Leicester City right-back Danny Simpson, according to reports from the Daily Mirror.

Simpson played a crucial role in helping Leicester claim the Premier League title last season but his future at the King Power Stadium is currently in doubt as the defender has not yet been awarded a contract extension, despite having only a year to run on the existing deal.

As a result, a lot of teams have been alerted by Simpson's current situation and Sunderland are reported to be ready to swoop for the 29-year-old by placing an offer.

Simpson played under Allardyce when on loan with Blackburn Rovers back in 2008/09 and it is understood that the Black Cats is eager to lure him to Wearside, provided the England managerial target remains.