Sam Allardyce focused on signing striker as Sunderland and Newcastle linked with Leeds United defender

But Black Cats boss Sam Allardyce insists he is happy with his central defensive options after the signing of Lamine Kone on a long-term deal.

Centre-back Bamba only joined the Championship outfit in the summer following a successful loan spell from Palermo.

But following the appointment of Steve Evans, Bamba has been in and out of the starting XI as he battles for competition with Liam Cooper and Giuseppe Bellusci.

Sunderland yesterday signed Kone after a month-long pursuit to bolster their defensive ranks and Allardyce has said in his pre-match press conference today that he is happy with his central defensive options.

Sebastian Coates is set to leave on loan for Sporting Lisbon for the rest of the season but Allardyce still has Kone, John O'Shea, Wes Brown and Younes Kaboul to call on.

But the Daily Star claim both Premier League clubs are hoping to land 31-year-old Bamba, with Wolves also said to be interested in the Ivory Coast international.

Evans is reportedly keen to keep hold of Bamba, but Leeds owner Massimo Cellino is willing to let him move on