Leeds United close in on deal for Sunderland and Scotland midfielder

Leeds United are reported to be closing in on the permanent signing of the Scotland international midfielder following protracted talks over the off-season.

Bridcutt wasn't part of the Sunderland squad that spent last week in France and he is not part of manager David Moyes' plans at the Stadium of Light.

The 27-year-old former Brighton midfielder made 24 league appearances for Leeds while on loan last season and he favours a move back to Elland Road.

Bridcutt has a year left on a deal worth £26,000 a week and Sunderland were keen to avoid bearing the cost of paying up his last 12 months, report the Yorkshire Evening Post.

Sources close to the midfielder have told the YEP that the two sides are on the verge of striking a deal after further discussions this week.

Sunderland are desperate to remove Bridcutt from the books, with the midfielder equally keen to leave the Stadium of Light after spending the final six months of last season on loan at Leeds.

Aston Villa have also been previously linked with a move for Bridcutt but Leeds are in pole position to sign the midfielder.