The Back Cats were chasing the talented Swede under former boss Martin O’Neill, but were unable to agree a deal with City.
Now, new boss Paolo Di Canio is keen to follow up the club’s former pursuit, and is hopeful of agreeing a deal for the hit-man.
Sunderland managed just 41 goals last term, which has forced the Italian to make a striker capable of finding the back of the net with regularity one of his top targets.
Guidetti proved his ability to do so during a successful loan stint with Feyenoord during 2011/12, where he notched 20 goals in 23 appearances.
This form tempted City to recall him for last season, but injury curtailed any hopes he had of regular first-team football.
With a number of high profile names said to be heading to the Etihad Stadium this summer, the 21-year-old may be allowed to move on, with Sunderland keen to take advantage of the situation.
Despite signing for the Citizens in 2010, Guidetti has barley pulled on a sky blue jersey, and has spent the most part of his time away from the club on loan with Brommapojkarna, Burnley and Feyenoord.