The Premier League defender and a second man were arrested at the Vermont Hotel early on Wednesday and are being questioned by detectives.
The 29-year-old was arrested on suspicion of rape after a call was made to the police by a woman in her 20s.
Sunderland Football Club has so far not commented. Bramble joined the club from Wigan in the summer.
A spokesman for Northumbria Police said two men, aged 29 and 30, were arrested on suspicion of rape.
Bramble has also played for Newcastle United and Ipswich.
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At least Wayne paid for it. Dirty Fucker..!!