Sunderland have made an improved bid of £4.5million for Reading winger Stephen Hunt.

The Black Cats have been chasing the Republic of Ireland international since the transfer window swung open earlier this month as they look to bolster their squad.

Sunderland have already seen one bid of £2.5million rejected for Hunt last week as Reading look to keep hold of the former Brentford ace.

The Stadium of Light outfit are determined to capture Hunt and are believed to have upped their offer to £4.5million.

Hunt, who has enjoyed a fine season to date, has refused to rule out a move to Sunderland as he weighs up his options.

Reading are in talks with Hunt over a new deal as they look to keep the player at the Madejski Stadium and they insist they are under no pressure to sell the 26-year-old.

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