Ex-Newcastle transfer target linked with Sunderland move

Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce is keen to boost his forward line this summer, with Jermain Defoe currently the only orthodox central striker on the club’s books.

The Black Cats have been in discussions with West Ham over a move for Diafra Sakho - potentially available if the Hammers fulfil their objective of bringing in a big-money striker this summer.

But it is understood that Sunderland - along with Hamburg - are keeping tabs on Wolfsburg’s 6ft 5in targetman Dost as an alternative option, although they have not yet made any formal contact with the German club.

Dost was on Newcastle’s hit-list 12 months ago and the Magpies held talks over a move for the 27-year-old, before eventually switching their attentions to Aleksandar Mitrovic.

But Wolfsburg are thought to be ready to cash-in on Dost this summer, as he prepares to enter the final 12 months of his contract with the Bundesliga side.

Dost - who has netted 36 goals in 84 Bundesliga appearances - wants to test himself in the Premier League, while Wolfsburg have held talks with Spurs target Vincent Janssen as a possible replacement.

Meanwhile, Sunderland, along with West Brom, have been credited with an interest in Norwich’s Robbie Brady.

The Republic of Ireland international is one of those likely to leave Carrow Road after Norwich’s relegation, although the Canaries have reportedly slapped a £12million price tag on the 24-year-old.

However, Brady has predominantly played at left-back over the last two seasons and that is not thought to be one of Allardyce’s priorities in the transfer market.

First-choice left-back Patrick van Aanholt penned a new four-year contract at the Stadium of Light last week, with a new right-back far more pressing for Sunderland.

PSG right-back Serge Aurier was mentioned as a possibility to fill the latter vacancy yesterday, but reports in France have dismissed the link.