Watford are considering a summer swoop for Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone.

The Italian has fallen out of favour at the Stadium of Light behind the impressive Jordan Pickford, and the Watford Observer understands he is one of a number of shot stoppers being looked at ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Hornets' recruitment team are searching for a long-term replacement for Heurelho Gomes, who turned 36 in February, and are keen to offload second-choice Costel Pantilimon, as well as at least one of their other back-up goalkeepers.

Mannone began his professional career at Arsenal, where he made 15 Premier League appearances before joining the Black Cats in 2013.

Since then, he has played 71 times for the north east club.