Atletico Madrid defender Jose Maria Gimenez is being tracked by Sunderland.
Black Cats boss Gus Poyet is eager to strengthen his defensive options and his search has led to Gimenez.
The Uruguay international, just 19, was a revelation for Uruguay at the World Cup, famously starring in their victory over England.
Atletico snapped up the young centre-half for just €1 million 12 months ago from Danubio.
After losing so many players from his title winning squad, Atletico coach Diego Simeone is reluctant to do business with Poyet over Gimenez's sale.
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