SUNDERLAND boss Mick McCarthy will step up his attempts to sign Ricardo Fuller this week before the Portsmouth striker jets off to the United States to play for Jamaica in the Concacaf Gold Cup, writes SCOTT WILSON.

McCarthy, who has already been in contact with Portsmouth officials and Fuller's representatives, is expected to table an initial bid within the next 48 hours.

With former transfer target Heidar Helguson having joined Fulham in a £1.3m move yesterday, and Wolves refusing to reduce their £2m valuation of Kenny Miller, McCarthy has turned his attentions to Fuller as he tries to bolster his striking resources.

Jon Stead has already arrived to partner Stephen Elliott but, with Kevin Kyle expected to need another operation on his troublesome hip and Michael Bridges still on the transfer list, Chris Brown remains the only other striker on Sunderland's books.

Fuller has been told he is surplus to requirements at Fratton Park after a bitterly disappointing last 12 months.

The 25-year-old made a £2m move from Preston last August, but his 37 appearances for Portsmouth have brought just one goal and boss Alain Perrin has opted to cut his losses.

Crystal Palace and Southampton have been linked with the pacy striker, but Sunderland are the first club to have firmed up their interest by approaching the player.

Further talks are planned this week and the Black Cats remain hopeful of concluding a deal before Fuller travels to America for next month's Gold Cup.

The tournament, which pits the best teams from North and Central America against a number of invited guests, will see the striker turning out for Jamaica in Group C.

The Reggae Boyz, who are one of the favourites for the competition, face Mexico, Guatemala and South Africa in the group phase that runs from July 8-13.

Ironically, Sunderland are due to jet out to North America themselves on July 12 to play four games in Canada and the United States.

McCarthy could link up with Fuller during the tour to tie up any loose ends, but the Black Cats boss would prefer to seal the deal this week.

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