New Sunderland boss Simon Grayson remains keen on Bournemouth winger Max Gradel and hopes to land him on loan this summer.

Grayson made an enquiry about Gradel last week but it was rejected by the Cherries. Now fresh reports say the Black Cats haven't given up hope of landing the 29-year-old and will try to sign him on loan with a view to a permanent switch in 12 months' time.

Grayson previously worked with Gradel when they were at Leeds back in 2010 and is keen to be reunited with the Ivory Coast international, who struggled for regular first-team action last season at the Vitality Stadium as he failed to start a single Premier League game under Eddie Howe.

The former Saint-Etienne man has also been linked with a return to France but it's thought he would prefer to stay in England and regular action in the Championship for Sunderland may appeal.