PA Sport understands the 29-year-old Frenchman is due to have a medical and hold talks with his former club tomorrow after the Black Cats agreed to let him go.

Chimbonda had made just 16 appearances for the north-east club since his summer move from White Hart Lane, but has started the last four games.

After a promising first few weeks at the Stadium of Light, he lost his place in the side under former boss Roy Keane amid rumours of disciplinary problems.