REID LINKED WITH GIANT STRIKER

Reid has been concerned at Sunderland's recent run of form that has seen them win just one game in nine, and sees the injury of Quinn as a major reason for the slump.

At six-foot-six, the 20-year-old is very much in the same mould as Quinn and Reid could see him as the perfect partner for Kevin Phillips when 34-year-old Quinn decides to hang up his boots.

Crouch is a former England youth international who signed for QPR for £60,000 from Spurs, and could leave Loftus Road to ease some of their financial difficulties.

The Black Cats have also been reported to be interested in PSG's Brazilian striker Christian and Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger blocked his move to The Stadium of Light in the summer and he has recently signed a new deal to keep him at the club until 2004.

Further bad news for Reid is the news that midfielder Alex Rae will miss the last six games of the season.

The 31-year-old is suffering from tendonitis in his knee and has not played since February because of the problem and suspension.

"Alex has been suffering from tendonitis, it came on when he was banned a few weeks ago," said Reid.

"He's had a lot of treatment since and we tried him in some light training earlier this week, but he's still feeling some pain."