Tim Cahill used to delight in scoring against Sunderland during his years at Millwall and Everton but now representatives of the New York Red Bulls midfielder are negotiating a deal which could see Cahill playing for Martin O’Neill’s side during the MLS off season.

Now 33, the Australia international moved to the United States last summer but would welcome a short return to the Premier League, where Sunderland could do with a bit more creativity and a few more goals.

Meanwhile, Newcastle have agreed a deal to sign France international defender Mathieu Debuchy from Lille.

It is understood the Magpies have finally reached an agreement with the Ligue 1 side on a €6 million transfer after failing to land the player despite protracted talks during the summer.

The 27-year-old, a former team-mate of midfielder Yohan Cabaye, has made no secret of his desire to head for Tyneside.

Sources in France have indicated that could now happen with the transfer window due to open on Tuesday. Debuchy appeared in all four of his country’s games at the Euro 2012 finals last summer and now has 13 senior caps to his name.

Should the Magpies push home their interest in Debuchy, he is unlikely to be their last defensive target and they retain an interest in FC Twente’s Douglas.

Guardian Service