Saunders, who was hoping to face the winner of Gennady Golovkin v Canelo Alvarez, has been left in limbo by the super-fight ending in a draw last month.
As Golovkin v Canelo heads for a May rematch in Las Vegas next year, Saunders has been left on mandatory duties, which the WBO expect to be completed by November 8, 2017.
The pair have already exchanged words via social media as Saunders contemplates what could be a breakout clash on the world stage against a dangerous puncher in the French-Canadian ex-IBF title holder.
