SEB LARSSON has revealed Steve Bruce's determination to secure his services for a second time and the manager's vision for Sunderland helped seal his move to the Stadium of Light.

Larsson has been the subject of plenty of interest in recent weeks, with Arsenal, Everton and Aston Villa among those known to have expressed an interest in him.

But it was Bruce’s words and powers of persuasion that convinced the Sweden international to head for Wearside.

Larsson is believed to have signed a three-year deal, which will kick in on July 1 when his contract at Birmingham has expired.

“It has been a big decision. I had other alternatives but it’s great to sign with a big club like Sunderland,” said Larsson.

“Steve Bruce showed he really wanted me and that’s important. It’s the second time I have signed for him and it’s positive that I knew he wanted me when I moved to a new club.”

Sunderland might have finished tenth last season but Larsson will not be happy with a similar standing next time around.

He is aware of the many changes to personnel taking place, but is confident Bruce is targeting the type of players capable of lifting them higher in the Premier League.

“Sunderland are building for the future and want to be better than last year,” said Larsson, in an interview with Swedish website fotbollskanalen.

“They will build a team to get higher up and we aim to get higher than last year. We will be looking to play offensive football too.”

Larsson, a former graduate of Arsenal’s reputable international Academy system, will arrive with Bruce intending to play him on the right wing. He can, though, also play on the left.