Premier League side Brighton have made an opening bid to sign Sunderland's rising star Tommy Watson according to the latest reports.

Fabrizio Romano claims Brighton have entered talks to sign the England youth international, but ChronicleLive understands the Black Cats are reluctant to sell their academy talent who has 18 months left on his contract and it's unlikely he'll leave the Stadium of Light in the current window.

The Seagulls have long been admirers in the youngster, having shone for the Black Cats at both U18 and U21 level before breaking into the first team this season. The Academy of Light graduate has enjoyed an impressive breakthrough campaign under Regis Le Bris and attracted interest from a number of Premier League outfits.

READ MORE: Sunderland plot ambitious transfer swoop for Sporting winger Marcus Edwards

READ MORE: Championship rivals set for Sunderland transfer swoop with loan deal bid

The 18-year-old has made ten appearances in the Championship this season, scoring twice against Stoke City before injury interrupted his campaign.

Watson has not featured for the Black Cats since picking up a knee and ankle injury in the 1-1 draw with Bristol City. The youngster is expected to return to action in the coming weeks and it would take a very enticing offer to force Sunderland's hand this month.

Le Bris side have fended off interest in their young talents this month with Dan Neil, Jobe Bellingham and Chris Rigg attracting attention from a number of high profile clubs. However, the club have stressed the importance of keeping their star players as they look to push for a return to the Premier League.

In terms of incomings, the Wearsiders are also in talks to sign Sporting winger Marcus Edwards this month, though face competition from fellow Championship side Burnley in the race to get a deal over the line before deadline day.