The Black Cats manager confirmed he is close to agreeing a deal to bring the player to the Stadium of Light for the season.
Bruce said: "It's fair to say that we are close to agreeing a deal. I'll hopefully know more in the next 24-48 hours, but we hope so."
Bruce is still on the look out for defensive reinforcements with Paraguay international Paulo Da Silva yet to reach full match fitness after missing all of pre-season because of administrative problems with his switch to English football
