Report: Jozy Altidore 'in discussions' with MLS over return to league

Jozy Altidore's disastrous stint at Sunderland could reportedly be coming to a close sooner rather than later.

According to ESPN's Taylor Twellman, Altidore is in discussion with Major League Soccer over a return to the league in which he carved out a name for himself during three seasons with the New York Red Bulls.

Such a move would take place during the winter transfer window, and the Red Bulls are apparently one of three clubs that have applied for Altidore's services, with Toronto FC and the Portland Timbers also interested in landing the out-of-form American striker. 

It should be noted that the Red Bulls are the only side of the three who currently hold a Designated Player slot, which Altidore would almost certainly occupy. However, Toronto will have one available assuming Jermain Defoe completes his reported move to Leicester City.

Since arriving at Sunderland in the summer of 2013, Altidore has scored only one goal through 42 Premier League appearances - a far cry from his time at Dutch side AZ Alkmaar, with whom he scored 38 goals in 67 league appearances.