Exclusive: Sunderland exploring the possibility of re-signing Vito Mannone - and player is keen

Mannone is currently at Ligue 1 side Monaco, and sources close to the Italian have confirmed he is keen on a potential return to Wearside.

We understand there have been discussions between the clubs about a deal and, while there is nothing imminent, Sunderland’s interest is ongoing as they examine all their options to strengthen the squad this summer for a League One promotion push.

Mannone was a hugely popular figure in his first spell at Sunderland, with 2014 an especially stand-out year for the 33-year-old.

He was named both the Supporters’ Player of the Year and took the club’s official award too.

Arguably, Mannone’s best moment for Sunderland came in the League Cup semi-final, in which he saved two penalties in a shoot-out success that took the Black Cats to Wembley.

Mannone has one year left on his contract at Monaco, where he has been since 2020.