Keane ready to step up attempts to lure Hunt from Reading

Sunderland are likely to be the first club to take advantage of Reading's relegation plight by prising Steve Hunt away from the Berkshire club.

The Irish international is a long-time target for Roy Keane, who has been impressed with his commitment, energy and skill. Keane, who has already said he will significantly revamp his team, will be aware that Hunt had an escape clause written into the new contract he signed in January. That stated he would have to be released if a club offered 5m for the winger. Having failed with lesser bids, Sunderland are now prepared to go to 5m.

While Hunt is reluctant to leave Steve Coppell, who rescued him from Brentford reserves in 2005 and brought him into the game at Crystal Palace, the 27-year-old is aware that he may only have one big move left to secure his future. He is thus likely to leave even if Reading secure their Premier League status on Sunday. To do that they have to better, at Derby, Fulham's result at Portsmouth while matching Birmingham's at home to Blackburn.

Hunt is likely to be the first of several players to leave Reading. West Ham tried to buy Nicky Shorey at the beginning of the season and may renew their interest in the England international.

Kevin Doyle, Dave Kitson, Marcus Hahnemann and James Harper should also attract interest.

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