Birmingham boss Chris Hughton is weighing up a move for ex-Aston Villa striker John Carew

Sunderland want Aston Villa striker John Carew, who is about to leave Villa Park on a free transfer after a loan spell at Stoke.

Striker John Carew, 31, has said he wants to quit Aston Villa and make his loan move to Stoke permanent.

Former Aston Villa striker John Carew is hoping that his six-month deal at Stoke is made permanent. Carew's time with the Potters has been hampered by injury and Stoke boss Andy Pulis has yet to decide on his future.

Aston Villa striker John Carew will become the highest-paid player in Stoke history when he signs a £52,000-a-week loan deal, with Ricardo Fuller being sold to Sunderland to make room for him.