Joey Barton in surprise Sunderland transfer link

Sunderland are considering a sensational move for Queens Park Rangers' midfielder Joey Barton. The player, who spent last season on loan at Marseille, has reportedly been told he is free to leave QPR at the end of this season.

Sunderland manager Gus Poyet is frantically searching for a defensive midfielder and has seemingly set his heart on recruiting the former Newcastle midfielder Barton. The midfielder has enjoyed a good campaign so far this season with QPR and is reportedly desperate for a return to the Premier League.

It is understood that the 31-year-old, who has 18 months left on his deal at QPR, is not interested in a move to his former club Newcastle's bitter rivals Sunderland.