Sunderland are stepping up their bid for Bournemouth winger Max Gradel.

The Daily Mail says the striker is set to leave the Cherries this summer with a host of clubs including French club Toulouse interested.

Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe insists Gradel remains part of his plans for the forthcoming season.

Sunderland will increase their efforts to sign Bournemouth striker Max Gradel this summer

But that will not stop Sunderland boss Simon Grayson from pursuing a swoop for the striker.

Gradel has a proven track record of scoring goals in the Championship and Grayson believes the Ivory Coast forward can provide the firepower as the Black Cats look to bounce straight back up after last season's relegation.