SUNDERLAND yesterday agreed a £350,000 deal for Manchester United goalkeeper Tony Coton and the move is expected to be rubber-stamped today.

Coton, however, may face pressure for a first-team spot at Roker Park from Romanian international Bogden Stelea. He reported for training yesterday and is available on a free transfer as he is out of contract with his club

Steaua Bucharest.

Sunderland badly need an experienced goalkeeper as they prepare for life in the Premiership. Shay Given, who was outstanding when he played on loan from Blackburn last season and also starred for Ireland under Mick McCarthy, has returned to Ewood Park. And Alec Chamberlain is now with Watford after a £40,000 move last week.

Coton made a shock switch to Old Trafford from Manchester City last season but never figured in the starting line-up. Coton said: "I would not have liked to have completed my career without playing again in the Premiership.

"While it was exciting to be part of the squad that achieved the double double, there is nothing like playing. I was happy to act as cover to Peter Schmeichel, but realistically he is the best goalkeeper in the world and it would be almost impossible for me or anyone to dislodge him permanently."

Tomas Brolin may be leaving Leeds United for Verona, who gained promotion to Serie A last season, according to a report in a Gothenburg newspaper yesterday.

Sweedish international Brolin refused to comment on the deal, saying only: "When everything is settled, I'll tell you."

The 26-year-old has been unhappy at Leeds during the past season and rumours of a transfer have circulated for several months.

Spanish clubs Real Bet is and Real Sociedad as well as Italian club Sampdoria have also displayed interest, but found the asking price of approximately £2.8 million too high.

Verona will return to the Italian first division this season after four years in the second-division and are looking to acquire a top player.