Report: TFC agrees to swap Defoe to Sunderland for Altidore

Jermain Defoe is reportedly heading back to the Barclays Premier League. 

Toronto FC has agreed to a swap that will send Defoe to Sunderland in exchange for American striker Jozy Altidore and cash, according to Gareth Wheeler of TSN. 

Defoe arrived in Toronto on a reported $10-million transfer fee last winter to much fanfare, as the former England-international was the face of a dramatic rebuild for a team that has failed to make the postseason in its eight-year existence.

The 32-year-old scored twice in his MLS debut and rattled off 11 goals in 19 games before the love affair came crashing down. Defoe battled a groin strain that limited him to four games in the final three months of the season, while also reportedly requesting a transfer back to England. 

Defoe had been heavily linked to a number of EPL clubs over the past two weeks, with Leicester City and Queens Park Rangers reportedly interested in his services. 

Sunderland certainly need the help. The club currently sit 16th in the EPL, one point ahead of Hull City in the relegation zone and have managed just 18 goals in 21 games. 

The move for Altidore puts an end to a disappointing spell with the Black Cats that saw the 25-year-old net one goal in 42 appearances. His performance is a far cry than the production he enjoyed with AZ Alkmaar of the Eredivisie in the Netherlands prior to his move to Sunderland, where he recorded 39 goals in 67 appearances. 

Wheeler notes that it is believed Altidore has signed a four-year deal with TFC, though financial terms have not been disclosed, and will occupy one of the team's designated player spots.