Sunderland reportedly made an offer for former Liverpool star Naby Keita during the summer transfer window.
The Black Cats are said to have held an interest in the midfielder, who left Anfield in the summer of 2023 to join German side Werder Bremen.
Keita had a difficult year at the Bundesliga club, with the injuries that plighted him at Liverpool also affecting him last season - making just five appearances in all competitions.
The Guardian have reported that Sunderland - currently top of the Championship - made an offer for the 29-year-old Guinean international.