Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is closing in on a deal for Paraguay midfielder Cristian Riveros.

The Sunderland chief, eyeing a top-10 finish at Wolves tomorrow, is keen to strengthen for next season.

He hopes to tie up a deal for Riveros, 27, before the Cruz Azul midfielder starts World Cup preparations.

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