Sunderland close on Santiago Vergini

Sunderland are believed to be closing in on the signing of Estudiantes centre-back Santiago Vergini.

President of the Argentine club, Enrique Lombardi, said that he is reluctant to let the 25-year-old leave, but said that the player has his heart set on a move.

"Vergini is eager to go, to move to a new club," Lombardi told Diario Ole. "He is very important to us, we are analysing a good offer."

It is thought that Vergini, who could cost around £400,000 as he only has six months remaining on his current contract, will sign sign an 18-month deal with an option for an extra year.

He was linked with a move to Barcelona after Gerardo Martino, his former boss at Newell's Old Boys, was appointed to the helm.