Watford are understood to be interested in signing Sunderland defender Younes Kaboul.

Watford head coach Walter Mazzarri wants to bring in another centre-back before the end of the transfer window and it is believed experienced Frenchman Kaboul is one of their targets.

The 30-year-old played in Sunderland's 2-1 defeat at Manchester City on Saturday and is considered an important part of David Moyes' team.

Reports of a possible move to Vicarage Road have been met with surprise by Sunderland fans as he played a significant role in helping the side avoid relegation from the Premier League last season.

Watford tried to sign Kaboul last summer from Tottenham Hotspur but the defender moved to the Stadium of Light on a four-year deal. 

Mazzarri wants to sign two to three players before the transfer window shuts at the end of this month.

The Hornets are close to sealing the signing of Juventus midfielder Roberto Pereyra and bringing in another defender is also a priority for the Italian. 

Watford were linked with a loan move for Arsenal's Calum Chambers this summer but a spate of defensive injuries resulted in his inclusion against Liverpool on Sunday and Arsene Wenger is unlikely to let him leave.