Cats boss Bruce identifies priorities for transfer window

Nov 3 2009 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

SUNDERLAND boss Steve Bruce has earmarked both full-back roles and right midfield as priority positions to strengthen during the January transfer window.

The Journal understands that Tottenham’s out-of-favour midfielder David Bentley and Wigan left-back Maynor Figueroa have both been mentioned as possible recruits when the transfer window swings open.

Although the window doesn’t open for two months, the Black Cats began planning as soon as the September deadline passed. Bruce and chief scout Ricky Sbragia have drawn up a shortlist of areas to be strengthened that focuses mainly on strengthening the back four and the wide midfield areas.

The right-back and left-back areas are understood to be a priority, while Bruce is also looking for competition for Steed Malbranque on the right of midfield.

Bruce has also included a new centre-back on his shopping list – although this is not understood to be a priority after the excellent form of Michael Turner and the improvements of Anton Ferdinand and Nyron Nosworthy over recent weeks.

Although full-scale squad surgery is not required, the Sunderland boss will be handed a sizeable transfer budget for January. It is all part of the club’s admirable long-term planning which has seen Sbragia globe-trotting to check out players in South America and some of Europe’s more far-flung leagues.

But Bruce also has more established targets that are closer to home – and is considering a move for Spurs’ England international Bentley, who has endured a terrible time at White Hart Lane since leaving Blackburn in a £15million move. Although currently in the Spurs team following an injury to Aaron Lennon, Harry Redknapp is yet to be convinced by the midfielder and he would be available at the right price.