Gus Poyet has revealed that new recruit Marcos Alonso was "desperate" to join Sunderland prior to completing his switch to the North-East.

The 23-year-old, who has previously played in the Premier League for Bolton Wanderers, has moved to the Stadium of Light from Fiorentina on a loan deal until the end of the season.

"Marcos is a player that I have known well for a very long time," Poyet told the club's website. "He was desperate to come and play for Sunderland and he is a player I am excited to work with."

Alonso has completed a medical and will officially link up with his new teammates on Wednesday.