League One transfer gossip: Sunderland, Charlton Athletic and Ipswich Town target Jermain Defoe 'holds talks' with Oxford United
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According to The Telegraph’s Jason Burt, the ex-Tottenham goalscorer has spoken with the U’s who are said to be interested in a move for Defoe.
Ipswich Town and Charlton Athletic have also shown an interest in the former England man alongside former club Sunderland.
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Hide AdDefoe departed the Scottish champions earlier in the window prompting speculation regarding the 39-year-old’s next move.
The one-time West Ham man’s name was instantly mentioned with a return to Sunderland after the striker cemented himself as a club hero during a two-and-a-half season stint on Wearside.
And Defoe himself has confirmed that he intends to keep playing after his Rangers departure, and has said that making a stunning return to Sunderland is 'an option'.
The 39-year-old, who appeared on talkSPORT earlier in the week, confirmed that he has a 'few options’ on the table.
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Hide AdDefoe also feels that he is still fit enough to make a significant impact.
The striker confirmed that one of those options was Sunderland, where he retains a legendary status following his first stint at the club.
Speaking yesterday, he said: “When I signed the Rangers contract in the summer, I stressed that I wanted to play in front of fans.
“I missed them so much, it wasn’t the same, so I wanted another season. To be honest, it’s been mad. My phone has gone mad.
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Hide Ad“We’ve got a few options. Sunderland is one and I think it’s well documented that it is there.”
Sunderland head coach Lee Johnson says there is still a lot that would have to happen for Jermain Defoe to make a return to the Stadium of Light.
“I saw the clip of Jermain talking on talkSPORT,” Johnson said.
“Listen, we know the script with that one. He’s a good guy and the fanbase are all over it. He’s 39 and could bring us a wealth of experience.
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Hide Ad“As I’ve said before, a lot of things would have to happen for any potential move to have to happen, and a lot of people would have to be happy with it for whatever reason.
“At the moment, it’s not there.”