The Daily Mirror reports that promoted Watford have stepped up their efforts to extend manager Slavisa Jokanovic's contract.

The Serbian tactician's current deal expires next month but after reports emerged that Sunderland are interested in luring him to the Stadium of Light, the Hornets are determined to tie him down.

The former Chelsea midfielder was signed on a short-term nine-month deal last October becoming the club's fourth manager in the space of 37 days.

Since then Jokanovic has secured 67 points from 34 games, leading the Hornets back into the Premier League in the process.

Amid speculations that Sunderland might approach Jokanovic, Watford owner Gino Pozzo and chief executive Scott Duxbury have started negotiations regarding a new contract.

Jokanovic is likely to be offered a rolling 12-month contract worth around £1million with a bonus incentive to keep Watford in the top flight.