Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger’s preference is for Sanogo, 21, to join a Premier League side on loan for the rest of the season and has spoken to Bruce about the Frenchman moving to the north-east.

Bruce admitted his interest in Sanogo in his press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash at West Brom, whilst also stating the club are exploring a permanent deal for Toronto striker Defoe.

“It’s been made clear that Sanogo might be available on loan and it’s something we’ll have a look at,” Bruce said.

“I don’t think I’m alone in being interested in Jermain Defoe either, who seems to be available, but the figures and the finances might just be beyond us.

“We’ll have a go. We have got four or five things on-going but whether it’s financially possible for us to do something in this window is debatable.

“If a player becomes available that will help us get better going forward then we’ll always try and act but we’ll have to wait and see. As usual, it will probably happen in the last couple of days of the window. Everyone’s jockeying for position.”

Defoe is currently training with Tottenham and is believed to be keen on returning to Premier League this month, with a number of clubs looking at possible deal.

Regarding Sanogo, Wenger, who has already let Lukas Podolski join Inter Milan this month, said: “He will go out on loan and my preference is in England.

“But we are short of an option in the Premier League. Hull is one opportunity. I spoke to Steve and he is interested but they have not positioned with us yet.”

Sky sources understand Crystal Palace are also interested in taking Sanogo.