Sunderland are closing in on a deal for Sheffield United defender Matthew Kilgallon.

The Daily Mail says Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is on the verge of completing a £1.75million deal for Kilgallon.

Bruce has moved fast this week to see off interest from Everton, Wolves, Burnley and Newcastle to clinch the move during the transfer window.

United are ready to sell the former Leeds defender now rather than lose him on a free transfer in the summer and Bruce is desperate for defensive cover following the weekend mauling at Chelsea.