Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has decided to delay Cristian Riveros' arrival.
Riveros should be in the country before next weekend meaning he will be available for selection when Sunderland face Birmingham City in their season-opener on August 14.
Bruce told safc.com: "With Cristian going off for international duty it made no sense to bring him over to the UK only for him to fly back to South America.
"By flying Cristian over next week we will get a fresher player as he won't have to make two return trips.
"Cristian has been keeping himself fit and had an excellent World Cup, so I am sure he will be ready to go when he arrives."
