Sunderland boss Gus Poyet says they have the option to sign permanently Ricky Alvarez.
The Argentina midfielder is on-loan from Inter Milan.
"Ricky I think we've got a chance. There is usually an option to buy in these international loans," said Poyet.
"It's a great way to help each other.
"We've got a player who cost so much money and is playing for Argentina. It's something unique. We will help him to be a top class Premier League player and he will help us to be a better club."
