Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is offering £6 million for Hull City defender Michael Turner.

The Daily Mail says Bruce has been desperate to bolster his defence after dropping interest in Richard Dunne and being rebuffed in his pursuit of Everton-bound Sylvain Distin.

He maintains hopes of a deal for Lyon defender John Mensah but wants a strong centre half with Premier League experience and sees Turner as the ideal man.

Turner was wanted by Liverpool and Fulham but Hull's valuation scuppered the deals. However, the player is believed to have grown distracted at the increased interest.

Stoke are also interested but Sunderland's ambition is likely to sway the deal their way. The situations have changed for Liverpool and Fulham with their budget required elsewhere.