Sunderland boss Roy Keane is having to remain patient as he attempts to strengthen his squad for a Barclays Premier League survival fight.

The 36-year-old is refusing to take no for an answer from Reading over compatriot Stephen Hunt after once again being rebuffed by the Royals.

Keane is understand to have offered £3million for the 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international, but the Berkshire club, who insist they do not want to sell him, have a significantly higher valuation.

There have been suggestions that it could take as much as £8million in total for Steve Coppell's club to part with Hunt and striker Leroy Lita, with the former accounting for £5million of that figure.

Whether or not Keane and his chairman Niall Quinn are prepared to go that high remains to be seen with the former Manchester United skipper insisting he will not be held to ransom, either in terms of transfer fees or wages, as he looks for value for money from his £20million kitty.

Sunderland have also been credited with an interest in Portsmouth's Matt Taylor, who is expected to command a fee or between £3million and £4million, although Pompey boss Harry Redknapp has seen his squad depleted by African Nations Cup calls and may be reluctant to sell before he can find a replacement.

However, the Wearsiders' interest in Blackburn's Robbie Savage appears to be over with the Wales international today holding talks with Derby.

Both clubs made inquiries for the player, but it is the Rams who have firmed up their approach to agree a fee with Rovers and be given permission to talk to the 33-year-old.

Meanwhile, several members of Keane's first-team squad are on duty with the reserves this evening as the manager prepares for Sunday's Premier League clash with Portsmouth.

Greg Halford, Ian Harte, Ross Wallace, Liam Miller, David Connolly and Anthony Stokes are in a 15-man party for the short trip to Newcastle, as is defender Russell Anderson for the first time since undergoing ankle surgery in August.  PA