Toronto FC boss will not rule out January sale of Jermain Defoe

The rumors of interest from Premier League clubs have slowed, but all signs still suggest striker Jermain Defoe will be leaving Toronto FC and heading back to his homeland come the January transfer window.

Defoe maintains that he is focused on returning from a groin injury and helping TFC reach the playoffs, but CEO of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Tim Leiweke didn't help silence any suggestions that the striker is on his way out of Canada come the turn of the calendar.

Speaking at the Leaders in Sport conference in London, England, Leiweke addressed the situation with the team's star.

"Jermain Defoe is focused on the remaining four games (of the regular season).

"There is no deal, no conversation, not even a thought right now.

"Jermain understands the uniqueness of Major League Soccer, we have playoffs. That's the defining moment on the success of our clubs.

"Making the playoffs would be a huge step forward (for Toronto). Jermain now gets that and is totally focused on that.

"As to what happens during the next transfer window, we've all agreed we'll put it on hold and talk about that in December.

"I compliment Jermain for being committed to trying to get us to the playoffs and making that the only concern that we have right now."

Defoe was heavily linked to a move to Queens Park Rangers during the summer transfer window, and while a deal was not completed, it continues to look as though the 32-year-old will only be spending one season in MLS.

- Quotes courtesy of FOX Soccer.