SUNDERLAND have been linked with a move for Cameroon international midfielder Stephane Mbia, who revealed he’d be very interested in making a switch to the Stadium of Light.

The 23-year-old was a target for Newcastle United during the January transfer window with then-manager Joe Kinnear claiming he’d lodged a £5m bid for the Rennes player.

But while the French Ligue One outfit successfully fended off interest in the midfielder on that occasion, they have become resigned to losing him this summer with manager Pierre Dreossi declaring: “Mbia is the only player we are willing to let leave if we get a suitable offer, which is not the case so far.”

He is believed to be available for around £6m and has been compared to both Patrick Vieira and former Chelsea enforcer Claude Makelele.

Everton and Birmingham City had Mbia watched last season and Alex McLeish and David Moyes are poised to bid for the player who has two years remaining on his current contract.

But Sunderland have emerged as genuine contenders for his signature.

Niall Quinn, the Sunderland chairman, has been eager to downplay reports that Bruce has tens of millions to spend this summer. However, with the Black Cats boss identifying a new defensive midfielder as one of his main priorities, the Wearsiders would not be put off by Rennes’ valuation.

A source close to the player said: “Stephane is flattered by the interest from England and a move to the Premier League would suit him. He is a physical player and ideal for English football. Sunderland is a great club and he is capable of being a great success there.”

Mbia began his career in his native Cameroon at the same club where Barcelona striker Samuel Eto’o cut his teeth before moving to Rennes where he’s been a key figure over the last four seasons.

He is often regarded as a battling midfielder but Mbia believes he can also operate in a more creative role.

He said: “I don’t see myself as a taller Makelele, even though I think he’s a great player. I see myself more as an Viera or Pirlo-type player.”