Sunderland have reportedly made a bid for Preston striker David Nugent.

The Black Cats are said to have tabled an undisclosed offer for the 22-year-old after failing to make progress with an earlier cash-plus-player proposal.

Neither club were commenting on the matter amid reports that Nugent has told friends he has opted for a move to the Stadium of Light.

The frontman, currently on international duty with England Under-21s in Holland, is keen to resolve his future after North End's failure to secure promotion from the Championship last season made his departure almost inevitable.

Liverpool-born Nugent has been repeatedly linked with Everton, the club he supported as a boy, and a series of other potential suitors.

The Toffees are yet to make a move, and it remains to be seen whether Sunderland's bid will prove decisive, or serve to smoke out other would-be purchasers.