Sunderland and Everton battle for star

Sunderland are ready to make a £5m offer for Spurs midfielder Steven Pienaar, despite Everton's desire to sign him.

The 29-year-old South African international returned to the Toffees back in January on loan from Tottenham and enjoyed a fine run of form, helping the club to a 7th place finish. Boss David Moyes is keen to add him to his side on a permanent basis but Spurs could yet price the cash-strapped Merseysiders out of their budget range. If Spurs do want too much money, and there are reports suggesting they will want as much as £5m for the player, then that could lead to Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill making a move for the player to try and pinch him from under Everton's noses. Aston Villa may also be interested if Roberto Martinez, who tried to sign Pienaar on loan in January, takes over at Villa Park