HITC Sport understands Sunderland are tracking the Bournemouth winger, who was a favourite of Simon Grayson’s at Leeds United.
West Bromwich Albion’s Craig Dawson and Sam Field in action with Bournemouth’s Max Gradel
Sunderland are lining up a move for Bournemouth winger Max Gradel, HITC Sport understands from sources close to the club.
New Sunderland boss Simon Grayson is busy trying to reshape his squad at the Stadium of Light after taking charge last month and he has identified Gradel as a target.
Grayson is a big fan of Gradel having signed the Ivory Coast international during his time in charge of Leeds United.
Sunderland manager Simon Grayson
Gradel impressed under Grayson scoring 25 goals in 85 appearances for Leeds – including a prolific 2010-11 season where he scored 18 times – before joining St Etienne that summer.
The 29-year-old moved back to England with Bournemouth in 2015, but he endured a frustrating campaign last season.
The skilful attacker did not start a Premier League game for Bournemouth last season and he made only 13 appearances in all competitions for the Cherries.
Gradel is understood to be keen on a move away in search of regular first-team football and a number of clubs have been monitoring his situation at Bournemouth.
However, Sunderland are hoping to win the race for Gradel with Grayson keen to be reunited with the player as he looks to build a side capable of challenging for promotion back to the Premier League.
Liverpool’s Sheyi Ojo in action with Bournemouth’s Max Gradel
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