Bruce, who could succeed Rafa Benitez at St James’s Park, secured 32 signings during his spell on Wearside – with some memorable hits and misses. Scroll down and click through the pages to see all the players signed by Bruce at Sunderland, and what they’re doing now:
13. Titus Bramble
Bruce splashed out £1million to land the experienced centre back, who featured intermittently during his three years on Wearside. Bramble has since moved into coaching with former club Ipswich Town. Photo: Stu Forster
14. Danny Welbeck
The Manchester United loanee excelled during his one-season stint with Sunderland - and has gone on to forge a successful career in the top flight. He's currently a free agent after leaving Arsenal. Photo: Ross Kinnaird
15. Asamoah Gyan
A former club record purchase, Gyan enjoyed a strong start to life on Wearside before moving to the UAE on loan. He's now plying his trade in Turkey, and recently announced his international retirement - before reversing the decision a day later. Photo: Mike Hewitt
16. Sulley Muntari
An eye-catching addition from Inter Milan, Muntari only managed to feature nine times for Sunderland and netted once in the process. The former Bruce signing is now in Spain, playing for Albacete in the second tier. Photo: Chris Brunskill