Former West Ham defender James Collins, 35, has been invited to train with Aston Villa, as manager Steve Bruce considers a move for the Welsh free agent.

Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce has been given the go-ahead to sign two defenders to help his side in their battle against relegation, with West Ham's James Collins, 32, and Olympiakos' French left-back Arthur Masuaku, 22, high on his wanted list.

New Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce wants to sign QPR midfielder Sandro, 26, and plans to move for striker Carlton Cole, 32, along with the West Ham defensive pair of James Collins, 32, and Joey O'Brien, 29

The Hammers are close to bolstering their defensive options with a double deal for Aston Villa's James Collins and free agent Sebastian Boenisch.

West Ham want to re-sign former defender James Collins, 28, from Aston Villa for £2m.