Sunderland's summer market plans are well underway, despite their dicey Premier League status.

The Evening Chronicle says Italian agent Roberto De Fanti - who will soon be confirmed in a director of football-style role with the Wearsiders - has begun work to identify potential transfer targets.

De Fanti is the man Sunderland owner Ellis Short has asked to oversee the football operation at the club.

The American had grown frustrated at what he sees as the club's failure to get value for money in the transfer market.