Sunderland's interest in Livorno striker Paulinho has been confirmed.

Paolo Di Canio is keen to overhaul his attacking options ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

And with a valuation of around £10m previously suggested, Paulinho's agent, Eugenio Ascari, said: "Abroad, I think that Di Canio's Sunderland are planning to make an offer soon.

"Sampdoria's offer is the most concrete - they have followed Paulinho for two, three months and we have already had contact with them."