Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has turned to England international Peter Crouch once again as he looks to land a big-name striker.
Press Association Sport understands the Black Cats have made an offer for the 30-year-old Tottenham frontman, but that the North London club's valuation of the player is currently significantly higher than theirs.
Bruce is desperately looking for additional firepower after a relatively toothless start to the new season and, having run the rule over a series of targets, has resurrected his interest in Crouch, a player he first tried to sign shortly after his arrival at the Stadium of Light during the summer of 2009.
On that occasion, the then Portsmouth striker rejected a move to Wearside and later headed to White Hart Lane, and it remains to be seen whether or not, if Sunderland can agree terms with Spurs, they can then persuade the player to head north at the second attempt.
Competition for places in attack Spurs has increased once again with the arrival of Arsenal old boy Emmanuel Adebayor on loan from Real Madrid, and the 6ft 7in frontman could face a big decision.
Manager Harry Redknapp admitted that there was significant interest in the player, who is also wanted by Stoke, and that he could leave the club.
He told Sky Sports News: "It's up to Crouchy. I've had Peter at a few clubs. Good player, great guy as well.
"But I suppose with Adebayor coming in, it's an area that we are a little bit overloaded in and he's one that people want, so if we could do a deal with someone, then it's a possibility."
Intriguingly, Spurs have been credited with an interest in Gyan, a link which has annoyed Bruce, although it is understood the Black Cats' offer is a cash one.
The Ghana international has looked out of sorts during the opening weeks of the new season, which have seen the optimism of an opening-day draw at Liverpool fade in the wake of defeats at home to derby rivals Newcastle and away at npower Championship Brighton in the Carling Cup and Saturday's 0-0 draw at promoted Swansea.
Source: PA
