Sunderland's move for Wigan Athletic fullback Maynor Figueroa is being threatened by Steve Bruce's row with Latics chairman Dave Whelan.

The News of the World says Latics chairman Whelan blamed last week's 9-1 rout at Spurs on Bruce's "dodgy signings" during his time in charge.

Mackems chief Bruce hit back and that has hardened Whelan's desire not to lose Figueroa to his old manager.

Bruce, who has already signed Lee Cattermole from Wigan, is hoping to land the Honduran defender for £5million.

The 26-year-old is keen on the move to the Stadium of Light but Whelan and Wigan are now ready to fight to hold onto the defender when the transfer window opens in January.