Sunderland are eyeing Ajax striker Luis Suarez.

Ajax are thought to be desperate to secure a replacement for Suarez as interest mounts in the 23-year-old after a dazzling season in which he has already scored 26 Eredivisie goals in 25 games.

It has been reported in the North East of England that Sunderland chief scout Ricky Sbragia watched the Uruguayan in Wednesday's international friendly against Switzerland.

Suarez signed a one-year contract extension in January, however, the new deal has done little to deter admirers and Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is thought to be keen to partner Suarez with Darren Bent.