Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio is tracking striker Matej Vydra as he strengthens his ranks ahead of his first full season in charge.
The Czech Republic striker was in superb form last season for Watford where he spent the season on loan, scoring 21 goals to help take Watford all the way to the play-off final before losing to Crystal Palace at Wembley.
The Black Cats are one of a number of Premier League clubs who are interested in signing Vydra with many believing the youngster can cut it at the top level after picking up experience in England last season.
Udinese are believed to want £8m for the 21-year-old and his agent, Ondrej Chovanec, admits that the idea of working under Sunderland boss Paolo Di Canio appeals to his client.
He said: “It is correct that Sunderland are interested, but they are interested in a loan at the moment. They don’t want to spend that money at the moment.
“To work with Paolo Di Canio would be a good thing. I think he will probably end up coaching with one of the very top teams in England.
“The final decision is with Udinese Calcio and the owner Giampaolo Pozzo and there are a lot of clubs interested in this player.
“Matej is a quality player and a top player for them, so they will be looking for the best deal available. He can play in a top level and I think that is what he will be doing next season.”
Sunderland will open the new season against Fulham at home, before travelling to Southampton and Crystal Palace to complete their August programme.
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