Sunderland are being linked with a summer move for Spurs striker Roman Pavlyuchenko to help Asamoah Gyan in the attack of the club.
The Ghana international has been left all alone in the attack of the Black Cats because of injuries and the departure of Darren Bent.
Coach Steve Bruce is looking for a long-term replacement for Bent, who left for Aston Villa in January, and his search could take him to north London.
The Russian striker has found regular first-team opportunities hard to come by under Harry Redknapp and may be open to a summer move, is reportedly a target for several clubs in his homeland.
Sunderland chief executive Steve Walton said: “There has been significant investment made to improve our playing squad and we are now starting to see the benefits of that investment.
“The continuing support of our owner [Texas-based businessman Ellis Short] also puts us in a secure position.”