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Reported Sunderland target James Tomkins is ready to quit West Ham this summer, according to reports.

The Black Cats have been linked with a move for the centre-back with reports claiming that boss Sam Allardyce is keen on a reunion with Tomkins.

The 27-year-old defender was a regular under Allardyce - and produced some of his best form under the now-Sunderland boss - but grew frustrated, according to the report in the Sun, at West Ham after losing his place in the side towards the end of the season.

The centre-back was often played at right-back before having to settle for appearances mostly from the bench as manager Slaven Bilic even preferred winger Michail Antonio at right-back.

Tomkins now reportedly wants to quit the East London side, with Big Sam said to be interested.

With Wes Brown set to leave and 35-year-old John O’Shea entering the final year of his contract, Sunderland have been linked with a host of centre-backs already this summer as Allardyce looks for cover for strong pairing Lamine Kone and Younes Kaboul.

Together Kone and Kaboul played a huge part in the Black Cats’ late run for safety. Kaboul has had an injury-hit career too, which would strengthen the purpose of bringing in another centre-back.

Tomkins joined West Ham at the age of just seven and has amassed almost 250 appearances for the club since breaking through the youth ranks.

And despite being a fan-favourite, reports suggest Bilic will listen to offers for Tomkins this summer as the West Ham boss looks for marquee signings for the Hammers ahead of their move to the Olympic Stadium.