Tottenham pair David Bentley and Jamie O'Hara are a £10 million target for Sunderland boss Steve Bruce.
The News of the World says Bruce wants players with Premier League experience to spark a push for a European place next season.
Bentley, 25, has seen his World Cup hopes shattered in a White Hart Lane nightmare since his £17million switch from Blackburn two years ago.
But Bruce believes the wideman can be transformed with a move to the Stadium of Light, like former team-mate Darren Bent.
Spurs chief Harry Redknapp is prepared to take a huge hit on a player he did not sign and will accept around £6m.
Bruce also wants O'Hara, 23, who has done well on loan at Portsmouth, despite their financial chaos.