Sunderland are leading the chase to sign Swiss defender Francois Affolter from Young Boys. Affolter, 21, is currently on loan at Werder Bremen but is reported to be unhappy with life in Germany. The talented youngster does not want to return to Young Boys, however, and hopes his future can be finalised in January. Reports in Swiss newspaper Blick claim Sunderland have been watching Affolter and are ready to make a £2million offer. Martin O'Neill is keen to strengthen his backline when the transfer window re-opens and add more competition to his defence. Palermo have also been linked with a move for Affolter, but Sunderland seem the strong favourites to land his signature in January. --------------------------------------------------------------------- All I know is he has played 12games this season for Bremen
