Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner's form with Sunderland may see him out of reach for the Black Cats when it comes time to discuss a permanent deal.

Bendtner is performing so well both for club and country that he fears Europe's elite will be trying to sign him when he leaves the Gunners next summer.

"I've made no secret that we'd love to sign him," said Bruce.

"However, it's one of those where the better he does, especially internationally, the harder it will be with others looking at him."