Wigan Athletic face competition today for Paul Scharner.
The versatile Austrian, who can play in defence or midfield, who spent four years at the DW Stadium, has been told he can quit Hamburg.
The 32-year-old, who moved to Germany from West Brom at the start of the season, is looking for a return to England and loan deal until the end of the season.
Wigan boss Roberto Martinez, aware of interest from Sunderland, wants Scharner back for the remainder of the season.