Sunderland still keen on signing Andre Ayew

Ghana international Andre Ayew is still on Sunderland’s list of summer targets despite consistent attempts by Swansea to keep him.

Sunderland saw a concrete bid in excess of £10million rejected by Swansea in the January transfer window and that prompted immediate speculation that the Black Cats would revive their interest in the close season after beating the threat of relegation last month.

Sam Allardyce remains a big fan of Ayew, and the Mail understands that he is a player that Sunderland is targeting, with an attacking midfielder/winger one of five key positions that the club is looking to address in the transfer market.

Although Sunderland is yet to make a formal approach to Swansea, discussions have been taking place over a move for Ayew, who has recently changed his agent.

Crucially, Ayew is thought to be willing to leave Swansea after just one season at the Liberty Stadium although West Ham is also believed to be interested in the Ghana international.

Swansea would not sanction Ayew’s exit in January – when they were involved in the thick of the relegation battle alongside Sunderland – but that may now change, albeit boss Francesco Guidolin insisted last month that he wanted to keep him after top-scoring for the Welsh club last season with 12 Premier League goals.

“There are good characteristics we have discovered with him, and I hope he stays,” said Guidolin.

“He is a big player, but his attitude is good. He is an important player, but he is quiet, a good guy, he decides to stay here, and he is happy.”