Sunderland given permission to speak to Baines

Sunderland have finally been given permission to speak to Wigan defender Leighton Baines.

It is understood that the Black Cats have been given the go-ahead to open talks with the 22-year-old left-back, although the clubs have yet to agree a fee.

Roy Keane has been chasing the England U-21 international for several weeks and has seen three bids rejected by the Latics.