Aston Villa boss Steve Bruce on loan moves and link with Lewis Grabban

The striker, on loan at Sunderland from Bournemouth, has been linked with a January move to Villa.

But ex-Black Cats boss Bruce - while admitting he is looking to strengthen his squad next month - says he wouldn’t be able to sign the player on a permanent deal.

“I have said for three months I am looking at loans,” Bruce said.

“How can I be linked with Lewis Grabban? I haven’t got the money. Put a line through it.”

Grabban has been a revelation at Sunderland, scoring 11 goals in a side struggling at the foot of the Championship.

His form has prompted a number of clubs to be linked with him, including Fulham and Wolves.

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has admitted they may take advantage of a recall clause in Grabban’s loan deal with Sunderland and bring him back to the Vitality Stadium next month, before cashing in on him.