Bruce holding out for Mensah

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Bruce confirmed on Monday that the Black Cats were close to agreeing a deal for the Ghana international and hoped to have it done within 48 hours - but things have taken a little longer to finalise - and he revealed after Tuesday night's 3-1 home defeat by Chelsea that he is finally closing in on his man.

He said: "The John Mensah thing is getting close. We are edging towards that one. It looks as if we might be able to have that one in the bag."

Bruce is concentrating on his defence as his summer recruitment drive draws to a close.

Paraguay international Paulo da Silva is yet to play for his new club because of the administrative difficulties which have surrounded his move from Mexican side Toluca.

But the Black Cats have a series of remaining targets - Bruce has admitted a passing interest in Lucas Neill, but is understood to have effectively admitted defeat in his pursuit of Manchester City's Richard Dunne - and hope to strengthen again in that department before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.