Sunderland boss Ricky Sbragia admits Pascal Chimbonda is set to join Tottenham.
The two clubs agreed a deal on Sunday which could see the 29-year-old Frenchman return to White Hart Lane after just six months on Wearside.
Sbragia said: "Since he came to the club he's struggled to settle. We had an opportunity to maybe make things a little bit happier for him.
"He's in London, he's having a medical down there, but if it doesn't work out, we'll be pleased to see him back."
Meanwhile, Sbragia also insisted the Black Cats fully intend to retain the services of striker Kenwyne Jones, despite Spurs' continued pursuit.
He said: "Kenwyne will be a Sunderland player, he'll be here after the deadline."