Speed wastes no time in revealing first transfer target

SHEFFIELD United manager Gary Speed wants French defender Jean Calve as his first signing at Bramall Lane.

By The Newsroom

Published 19th Aug 2010, 01:41 BST

Updated 19th Aug 2010, 11:41 BST

Calve, who played on trial for the Blades this summer, has seen a proposed move to Premier League newcomers Blackpool collapse and is still available on a free transfer from French club Nancy.

The Blades have re-opened talks with his representatives and Speed is keen for a deal to be done before his first game in charge, away at Middlesbrough on Sunday afternoon.

Calve, 26, would solve a problem at right-back for the Blades while Stephen Jordan – Kevin Blackwell's final signing before his departure – may also be available to make his debut at left-back if he has recovered from a calf strain.

Speed is also hoping to lure former Newcastle United and Leeds United coach John Carver to Bramall Lane in the next few days.

The Blades have been granted permission to speak to Carver, who is currently working under Peter Reid at Plymouth Argyle.