Report: Tyne-Wear rivals tracking U.S. international Williams

Newcastle United and Sunderland are apparently set to compete for German-born U.S. international Danny Williams' signature.

According to the Sunderland Echo's Chris Young, the Tyne-Wear rivals will vie with Swansea City and Aston Villa for the midfielder, whose Reading contract is entering its final 12 months.

The 20-time Stars and Stripes representative missed out on the national team's Copa America Centenario campaign despite coming off his finest season in the Championship. He moved to the Royals from TSG 1899 Hoffenheim in 2013.

Sam Allardyce is believed to be keen on boosting his midfield with the 27-year-old, while Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez claimed his side is nearing four signings ahead of its return to the second tier.