Sunderland are chasing Palermo striker Abel Hernandez.
The Daily Mail says Poyet is keen on Hernandez.
The Italians are reluctant to lose the Uruguay striker but the 23-year-old is interested in a move to the Premier League and the idea of linking up with Poyet.
Hernandez scored 14 goals in Serie B last season to help Palermo gain promotion. Sunderland also remain in talks over a deal for Liverpool striker Fabio Borini.
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