Last Updated: Sun, 29 Nov 2009 08:56
Sunderland are reported to be lining up a swoop for Fulham defender Paul Konchesky as Steve Bruce switches targets.
Bruce had made Wigan full-back Maynor Figueroa his number one defensive target for the January window but it looks as though Latics will refuse to do business.
Relations between Bruce and the Wigan chairman Dave Whelan have become strained since he left for the Stadium of Light in the summer and a deal for Figueroa is unlikely to happen.
Bruce is now having to look elsewhere and could turn his attention to Konchesky who is still waiting for talks to begin over a new improved deal at Craven Cottage.
The Black Cats are monitoring developments and Bruce could be willing to offer £3.5million for the player.