Black Cats head N'Zonzi chase

Sunderland have emerged as front-runners in the chase for Blackburn midfielder Steven N'Zonzi, Sky Sports understands.

Sunderland in pole position for Blackburn midfielder

Sunderland have emerged as front-runners in the chase for Blackburn midfielder Steven N'Zonzi, Sky Sports understands. The 23-year-old looks set to quit Ewood Park this summer after being left out of Rovers' pre-season camp in Austria. N'Zonzi was targeted by a host of clubs in January, but Rovers stood firm as they looked to battle against relegation. Steve Kean's side were unsuccessful in their attempts to beat the drop and N'Zonzi has made it clear he does not wish to play in the Championship. The Frenchman is now being tracked by a host of Premier League clubs with Tottenham, Aston Villa, Stoke City and West Ham all keen. But it is now understood that Sunderland are in pole position to capture N'Zonzi, although no club has yet agreed a fee with Rovers.