Sunderland are watching Portuguese midfielder Paulo Tavares.

The Black Cats have intensified their long-term interest in the Vitoria Setubal midfielder this month, says A Bola.

Tavares had previously spent his whole career with Leixoes before joining Setubal this summer on a free transfer.

For the moment, Vitoria Setubal are yet to field an official approach from Sunderland for the 26 year-old.