Bruce to take defender hunt elsewhere

20 July 2010 14:44
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is considering alternative targets after being frustrated in his attempts to sign a central defender.[LNB] Strengthening his back four has been a priority for Bruce all summer following John Mensah's return to Lyon after a loan spell on Wearside with no prospect of a permanent deal.[LNB]While he hopes to make a breakthrough within the next week or so with Argentinian full-back Marcos Angeleri, who is awaiting an Italian passport before he can sign, finding new recruits for the heart of his rearguard is proving more problematic.[LNB]Top target Heiko Westermann was on Tuesday poised to join Hamburg from Schalke, while the Black Cats' interest in Manchester City's Nedum Onouha has cooled.[LNB]Bruce is awaiting an answer from former Arsenal man Sol Campbell, who is currently away on honeymoon following his marriage at the weekend.[LNB]But the 35-year-old has spoken to several clubs, including derby rivals Newcastle, and is expected to make a decision when he returns, although the financial aspects of any deal for a man who will celebrate his 36th birthday in September could prove key.[LNB]However, Sunderland have other irons in the fire and Press Association Sport understands Bruce could be ready to turn to Titus Bramble, with whom he worked at former club Wigan.[LNB]The 28-year-old has rebuilt his career at the DW Stadium after an error-strewn five-year spell at Newcastle and is highly-rated by the former Manchester United defender.[LNB]Bruce has previously played down speculation linking him with a move for Bramble and any interest is at the formative stage.[LNB]

Source: Team_Talk