Steve Bruce admits he is interested in Aston Villa Football Club’s Habib Beye.

The defender has made just nine appearances for Martin O’Neill’s side since his move from Newcastle United in the summer, and he could soon be heading back to the North East.

Sunderland, who have been knocked back in their quest to sign Hamburg’s Guy Demel, have now revealed an interest in signing the 32-year-old.

“Habib Beye is one I like, but that's as a far as it has gone,” said Bruce. "We are interested in him and we have had a look at him, but I'm not sure whether we are going to be able to do anything."

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