Gus Poyet looks set to seal the deal to bring Argentine defender, Santiago Vergini to Sunderland as it is understood that the 25-year old centre back has arrived on Wearside to finalise his transfer from Estudiantes. The belief is that this deal would initially be until the end of the season with a view to remain with the Poyet’s relegation threatened side. However, hopes of pairing Vergini with former Newell’s Old Boys team mate, Ignacio Scocco appear a long way off at this stage despite Poyet’s interest.

Scocco has not enjoyed the best spell of his career since a move last summer to Internacional and is now linked with a move away. However, the Brazilian side are looking to recoup most of the $6.5 million they paid for the prolific front man.

If the fee alone had not been a stumbling block, former club Newell’s remain hopeful that if Scocco is available a move back to Rosario is available. President, Guillermo Lorente told Radio La Red, “Ignacio Scocco is very interested in returning to Newell’s and likewise, Newell’s are very interested in bringing him back.”

What perhaps increases the strength of Newell’s hand is that “Internacional didn’t pay one of the installments which were due to be paid by January 10. We’ll consider all possibilities to be able to bring him,” continued Lorente.

According to the bookies, like 888sport, Sunderland are still among the favourites for the drop as they remain in the bottom 3 but there is no doubting these two would greatly improve the options available to Gus Poyet.

Vergini was a key component of the Newell’s side that won the Torneo Final last year and at only 25 has a good future ahead of him. Comfortable on the ball and a strong leader along the back line, Vergini should have no problems adapting to english football.

As Gus Poyet admitted in The Mirror “With Vergini, we’re close,” adding, “I’ve talked to him and it’s well on the way. I’ve known him for years.”

Sunderland’s main issue has been scoring goals and so Ignacio Scocco would be a great signing. His move to Brazil may not have worked out but whilst at Newell’s Scocco was the stand out player in the division and claimed the top scorer award two seasons running. Pacy and able to drift into wider areas and work the channels, Scocco could be just what a misfiring Sunderland side are looking for.