Sunderland are establishing a partnership with Lierse SK.

The Sunday Sun says they are linking up with Belgian side Lierse SK to bring the cream of young African talent to Wearside.

The Black Cats have worked hard to develop links in Africa, announcing a partnership with Ghanaian side Kotoko last year and this summer signing the most lucrative shirt sponsorship deal in the club's history which sees the players wearing kit bearing the slogan 'Invest in Africa'.

And now Sunderland are following in the footsteps of clubs such as Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City by using a European club as a means of fast-tracking promising young players from Africa to the Premier League.

Sunderland will help bring potential African stars to Lierse, where they can cut their teeth in the Belgian Pro League.