H1B transfer while unemployed (passed 60 day grace)

Hello
I left my job in nov 2019 and applied for a COS from H1b to H4 in first week of dec 19
I got a job offer now in March 2020 but since i have passed the 60 day grace period and my COS application is still not approved ,my new employer is asking for a consular processing which in current COVID situation is looking risky
I want to know if there is any other way out in my situation as I dont want to lose this job offer. How long is the COS H1 to H4 taking currently? because if this is approved my emplyer can file a COS along with H1B transfer Petition and I wont have to go for stamping
Any recommendations would be really appreciated Thanks in advance!

Hi @nmathur I am exactly in the same situation now. Were you able to figure out if there is any other way to transfer from pending H4 COS to H-1B without consular processing?