Sunderland boss Gus Poyet is eager to close a deal for Fiorentina fullback Marcos Alonso.

The Evening Chronicle says the Black Cats have been locked in talks with Fiorentina over the future of left-back Alonso and have proposed a straight swap for centre-back Mo Diakite, who is unwanted on Wearside.

However, the Italian side want Sunderland to throw in £2million to complete the deal and are aware there is other interest in the full-back.

 For the big stories and the banter follow us on Twitter: @tribalfootball