Ex-Sunderland striker linked with shock return as League One rival delivers intriguing verdict

The French striker - who netted twice against the Black Cats for Gillingham earlier this term - is available on a free transfer this summer.

And Football Insider claim that the Black Cats are ‘leading the chase’ for his signature, having been impressed with his progress.

It remains to be seen whether Sunderland are keen on a return for the striker with all football currently suspended due to coronavirus.

Sunderland slipped just outside the play-off places before the suspension following a four-game winless streak.

The EFL are set to hold further talks with clubs on Friday over next steps with increasing fears the campaign will be cancelled and promotion and relegation issues decided via points-per-game tables.

Meanwhile, Doncaster Rovers boss Darren Moore says the League One campaign must be declared null and void, if it cannot be completed off the pitch.

The EFL confirmed last night that it has pushed back the date at which clubs can return to training to May 25th.

Having already told clubs that they believe 56 days are needed to play the remaining fixtures, and with chairman Rick Parry insisting the season cannot continue into August, time is running out.

There is a widespread expectation that League One and League Two will curtail their campaigns, which will spark a fierce debate about various ‘sporting merit’ solutions.

“I heard Lee Bowyer speak on Sky Sports and I am absolutely in his camp,” Moore told the Yorkshire Post.

“You cannot say this team could have beaten that team.”