Aston Villa's centre back Olof Mellberg may have more than just a passing interest in making an impression at BMO Field tonight when his English Premier club plays a friendly against Toronto FC.

Yesterday he expressed interest in playing in North America and it appears that TFC would have the inside track in signing the international soccer star because of his close ties to Maple Leafs captain Mats Sundin.

Mellberg, who until last season was captain of Sweden's national soccer team, said he has been friends with Sundin since the two became national icons in their respective sports.