Bruce hopeful of big Riveros signing

PREMIER LEAGUE: Sunderland boss Steve Bruce hopes to send out a message of intent within the next week as he attempts to complete a deal for Paraguay international Cristian Riveros.

The Black Cats boss confirmed the club is at an advanced stage in negotiations to snap up 27-year-old midfielder Riveros, who is currently playing his club football in Mexico with Cruz Azul, and could make the breakthrough within the next seven days.

Bruce said: “We have been working a long time on Riveros. I tried to sign him two years ago – I was quoted £12m and couldn’t afford him.

“He’s a middle-of-midfield player who can play on either side as well and something different to what we have got. He will go to the World Cup with Paraguay.

“We are close, we are very, very close and I wouldn’t be surprised if we can get him in the next week or so.”