German side Hamburg have joined Sunderland in the hunt for Andras Nemeth's signature, according to a report from Kicker.
It is understood that Hamburg are keen on making a move for the forward who would initially be utilised as a back-up option for their top-scorer Robert Glatzel if he completes this switch.
Sunderland were linked with a move for Nemeth earlier this month.
A report from Het Belang van Limburg suggested that while the 20-year-old is on Sunderland's radar, the Championship have yet to make a serious offer for him.
As per Belgium outlet Het Nieuwsblad, KRC Genk are currently believed to be unwilling to sanction a departure for Nemeth during the current transfer window and are taking the same stance regarding Mika Godts' future amid interest from Ajax.
Nemeth and Godts are both on course to become free-agents in the summer as their contracts are set to expire and fresh terms have yet to be agreed.
Nemeth has made 16 appearances for Genk's senior outfit this season and scored his only goal of the season during the club's 4-1 victory over Zulte Waregem in August.
Sunderland recently managed to bolster their squad by securing the services of Pierre Ekwah for an undisclosed fee from West Ham United.
Ekwah could potentially make his debut for the Black Cats this weekend when they face Fulham in the fourth round of the FA Cup.
The Verdict
With Hamburg seemingly keen on securing the services of the Hungary international, Sunderland may now find it beneficial to turn their options to alternative targets as they will have to wait until the summer to sign the forward due to Genk's stance on his future.
Regardless of what division the Black Cats find themselves in next season, Nemeth may find it difficult to adapt as he has spent his entire career to date playing in Belgium.
Given that there is only a short period of time left for Sunderland to make signings, they may find it beneficial to focus primarily on drafting in players who know what it takes to compete at this level.
By signing a striker who is capable of providing some much-needed competition for top-scorer Ross Stewart, Sunderland could potentially boost their chances of securing a top-six finish in the Championship later this year.