Peruzzi poised for Sunderland switch

Velez Sarsfield’s Gino Peruzzi has confirmed that negotiations over a move to Sunderland are at a “very advanced” stage.

The Argentina international has long been linked with a move to The Stadium of Light as manager Paolo Di Canio looks to overhaul his squad after a disappointing 17th-place finish in the Premier League last time out.

And Peruzzi, 21, revealed that he had been encouraged by Velez general manager and former Newcastle United player Christian Bassedas to give the north east of England a serious look.

“Bassedas told me about the city, the people, that there is a lot of respect, he said something about the team. He told me that he liked to play there,” Peruzzi explained to Ole.

Peruzzi is also relishing the challenge of playing in the Premier League, specifically because of the speed at which the game is played.

“It’s beautiful, especially since in my opinion it’s one of the best leagues because of the tempo played there,” he continued.

“I think English football is the most competitive.”

Velez vice-president Julio Baldomar had previously confirmed that two clubs are interested in signing Peruzzi.