The Black Cats have offered a combined �5m fee, and the Baggies gave the go-ahead for the pair to travel to the northeast even though the bid has yet to be formally accepted.

It is believed Albion are looking for a player-exchange, which could involve Republic of Ireland striker Stephen Elliott.

Keane knows all about McShane from their days together at Manchester United, where McShane was an FA Youth Cup winner in 2003.

Sunderland also expect to hear whether Preston's David Nugent has agreed to move to Wearside in a �7m deal when the England international returns from holiday on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Fulham are in talks with West Brom over a cash-plus-player deal for striker Diomansy Kamara.

The Premier League club have offered Albion a �4million payment for the Senegal international with Iceland striker Heidar Helguson moving in the opposite direction as part of the package.