The Mariners have two vacant slots for marquee players and are hoping to use one of them on Scottish striker McCormack to lead their attack this season.

If the move comes off, it will give new coach Mike Mulvey a much-needed new dimension in the front third and, potentially, enough firepower to mount a legitimate finals push.

Scottish striker McCormack scored 14 goals in 17 games on loan at City last season before returning to his parent club Aston Villa.

Still out of favour at the English Championship club, the 32-year-old is believed to be keen on a return to Australia, although discussions are understood to be at a very early stage.

The Daily Mail in the UK is reporting that the Mariners are looking to complete a loan deal with Villa this week.

Meanwhile, the Mariners have also been reportedly linked with former Socceroos winger Tommy Oar, who could conceivably take up the other marquee position.

However, Oar is still on the books at Cypriot club APOEL and would need a release from his contract to take up any offer.

Australian Associated Press