Sunderland Football Club hope to sign David Wheater in the New Year.

Steve Bruce wants to team the England Under-21 international defender alongside Michael Turner in the heart of his Black Cats back four when the transfer window reopens.

It is being reported that the Stadium of Light boss wants to take Wheater on loan for the rest of the season, with the view to a permanent deal in the summer.

Bruce hopes an offer of £4million, plus a further guarantee of £1million depending on incentives, will be enough to persuade Middlesbrough to do business.

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