However, the Clydesdale Bank Premier League side’s £1m valuation is unlikely to be a major obstacle, and the player was expected to undergo a medical today.

Anderson’s agent Blair Morgan told the Scottish Sun: “Russell has been given permission to talk to Sunderland.

“We are here for those meetings and we will see how it all progresses.”

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate has also been trailing Anderson, but it appears Keane has made a decisive move and could wrap up his second signing of the summer within days.

Anderson joined the Dons as a trainee and was given a testimonial last season.

He has seven full caps and has made 320 appearances for his hometown club, scoring 17 goals.

Anderson would be Keane’s second signing since the Wearsiders secured their return to the Barclays Premier League.

Greg Halford became the first when he completed a £3m switch from Reading.

Sunderland have given nothing away as to the identities of their targets despite being linked with dozens of players.

However, they have spoken to Preston striker David Nugent and are awaiting his answer amid speculation that Everton, the club the 22-year-old supported as a boy, are stepping up their interest.