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."
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