By GMM

Bruno Senna is in pole position to step into the Toro Rosso race seat for 2009, candidate Sebastien Buemi has said.

Red Bull test driver and teenager Buemi has also been mentioned for the drive, which has become available since Sebastian Vettel's departure at the end of the season was announced in Germany.

But GP2 driver Buemi, a Swiss, told the newspaper Tribune de Geneve: "I know that Gerhard Berger wants to put Bruno Senna in Vettel's place."

Team co-owner Gerhard Berger is otherwise keeping any plans he may have for Senna low-profile.

"In GP2 there are some good racers," the ten-time grand prix winner is quoted as saying by Auto Motor und Sport.

"Romain Grosjean is one of them, and Buemi," Berger added.