Scocco arrived at the club’s training ground for a medical early today and will tonight watch his new team-mates entertain Stoke in a crucial relegation showdown.
But whatever happens at the Stadium of Light, Poyet has a key role for the 28-year-old, signed for £3m from Brazilian outfit Internacional.
And providing the deal is completed in time, he could even consider starting with the once-capped Argentina international in Saturday’s derby at Newcastle.
“He is someone who can bring something special around the box that we are missing,” said Poyet.
“He is comfortable in a front three but we will use him further up the pitch because he is not really a defensive player.