Bruce steps up efforts to capture Everton's Johnson

13 April 2012

Wigan manager Steve Bruce will step up his efforts to sign Everton's £10million-rated Andy Johnson after missing out on one of his other top targets.

Bruce had been tracking Honduras midfielder Hendry Thomas for months, with Wigan agreeing a £1.8m fee with South American club Olimpia for his signature.

Everton's Andy Johnson celebrates after scoring during the UEFA Cup fourth round, second leg against Fiorentina

Everton's Andy Johnson celebrates after scoring during the UEFA Cup fourth round, second leg against Fiorentina

But the deal has collapsed after Thomas, 23, was refused a work permit.

Bruce said: 'It's very disappointing. We tried to appeal against the decision but it's fallen on deaf ears. The player is totally devastated.'

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