Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh has revealed that he could join Sunderland after stating contact with the Premier League club is at an advanced stage.
The 25-year-old has been reported to be close to a move to England throughout the summer, with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger confessing he has been tracking the Morocco star.
Fulham and Tottenham have also been credited with an interest in Chamakh but Sunderland, whose link was ridiculed by Bordeaux president Jean-Louis Triaud earlier in July, appear to be in pole position.
The forward could stay at Bordeaux but he has confessed that Sunderland, who are looking for a target man after ending a pursuit of Peter Crouch, have made significant efforts for his signature.
Chamakh said in L'Equipe: "Bordeaux have made me a more attractive proposition to stay.
"So contrary to what some people say, I don't want to leave for money but to experience a new challenge.
"In France, it is impossible that I could go anywhere else than Bordeaux, because that club will remain in my heart.
"However, I have made the wish to have a new adventure in England, and I would like that idea to happen.
"The contact which has reached advanced stages is with Sunderland.
"Maybe for some people it is not a great club, but it is fine to me. I know it can be a step forward and it is what I want."