CALDERON: SUNDERLAND MOVE NOT YET SEALED

DEPORTIVA TOLUCA midfielder Nestor Calderon has revealed a move to Sunderland could be on the cards but nothing has been finalised.

Although the Mexican club have not confirmed an official approach from the Black Cats, it is understood Steve Bruce is considering a raid for the talented youngster.

Bruce has made a habit of plucking promising individuals from across the globe during his managerial career and developments are expected when the transfer window reopens in January.

Calderon has already discussed the possibility of a switch to Wearside with defender Paulo da Silva, who is a friend of the 20-year-old.

"I have talked about it [Sunderland]," he told the Mexican press. "But it's still not a fact.

"The news was a pleasant surprise and something that keeps me motivated and puts a spring in my step, but it's only a possibility and I should wait for things to happen.

"Yes, I know Paulo. He is a great player and a real professional."

Toluca president Fernando Corona has insisted that any deal is a long way from being done.

"There is nothing official," he declared when quizzed on the subject by local journalists.

"We're proud that Sunderland from England may be keen on the services of another of our players, such as Nestor Calderon, as they were with Paulo da Silva but, right now, we have nothing official and, in addition, Deportivo Toluca do not work through intermediaries but from club to club.

"If we talk about the future, I want to clarify that Nestor would only be sold abroad but, again, we are talking about the future."

The left-sided prospect is very highly regarded in Mexico and has already been capped by his country.

Bruce has been using Andy Reid in a left-wing role with Kieran Richardson another option for the position, even though he has been deployed as a full back recently.

• ONE TO POACH: Nestor Calderon

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