Sunderland youngster Jack Diamond eyed for Harrogate Town return ahead of the National League play-offs

But as of yet there is no deal formally agreed with the Wearsiders to see the forward return to North Yorkshire.

Harrogate were sat second when the National League season was halted in March, but will now be given the chance to continue their promotion push after non-league clubs voted this week to continue with the play-off competition.

Simon Weaver’s side have surpassed expectations in the fifth tier of English football this season, with loanee Diamond proving a key player having featured 30 times across the campaign.

Indeed, the forward’s form has already attracted interest from a host of EFL sides – with Carlisle United one of a number of clubs monitoring the forward’s situation should Sunderland give the green light for a loan move in 2020/21. Harrogate, too, would be interested in taking Diamond back next season.

But in the short-term, the Gateshead-born attacker is being eyed for a return to the CNG Stadium with both player and club keen to see the 20-year-old available for the final fixtures of the campaign.

No agreement has yet been struck with the Black Cats but – with Diamond remaining under contract until June 2021 – there is a chance that a loan extension could be agreed.

The club have returned to training this week, but the Echo understands that Diamond has not been part of the group that have been put through their paces by Weaver and assistant manager Paul Thirlwell.

Diamond has previously spoken of his desire to help Harrogate into the EFL.

“I think everyone knows, especially with the season we’ve had, that we’re doing well and have every chance to go up,” he said, speaking to the Echo in March.

“I’ve been quite a big part of that and it would be a shame if I couldn’t help us finish it.”

Harrogate’s play-off opponents are yet unknown, with Notts County, Boreham Wood, Yeovil Town, FC Halifax Town and Barnet also eligible to take part in the knockout competition.