The Ecuador international has been linked with several clubs, including Real Madrid and Manchester United.
Bruce has confirmed that Real Madrid failed in a loan move for the 23-year-old in last month’s transfer window.
“It’s inevitable he is leaving. There is so much interest in him – not just in this country but around the world,” Bruce told The Mirror.
“We are talking about the biggest clubs in this country and Spain and beyond.
“There was a loan deal put to us by Real Madrid but it was not acceptable. We do have someone in mind to come in, but that is five months off.”
