Sunderland have registered their interest in signing Nottingham Forest's Liam Bridcutt and Zach Clough according to the Sunderland Echo. 

The report claims that both players are set to head out on loan during this month's transfer window, although it remains to be seen where their next destination is.

Bridcutt has recently returned to the City Ground from a loan spell with Bolton Wanderers, whilst Clough has found himself out of favour with the Reds.

Sunderland are challenging for promotion into the Championship this season, and a recent upturn in form has seen them move back into the play-off positions in the League One table.

The Sunderland Echo claim that the Black Cats have identified both Bridcutt and Clough as key transfer targets, and could make their move for the pair in the near future.

We look at TWO pros and TWO cons to Sunderland targeting the Nottingham Forest duo this month.

Pro: Bridcutt has much-needed fitness under his belt.

Bridcutt struggled for game time with Nottingham Forest, but the Reds made a smart move in loaning him out to Bolton Wanderers in the first-half of this year's campaign.

He made 12 appearances for the Trotters in League One, and was hugely impressive in his time with the third tier strugglers this term.

Therefore, he'll be keen to get further minutes under his belt, and a move to Sunderland could present him with the perfect opportunity to do just that providing he can keep himself injury-free.

Con: There are likely to be other teams interested in signing him on loan. 

Clough has already proven that he can impress in the Championship, having made a number of appearances for Bolton Wanderers earlier in his career.

He also caught the eye with Nottingham Forest, which is the same for Bridcutt who had an impressive spell with the Trotters this season.

Therefore, you have to imagine that other clubs are likely to be battling Phil Parkinson's side for the pair in this month's transfer window.

Can you name these former Sunderland players? Test your knowledge in our quiz!

Pro: It adds depth and competition to the Sunderland squad. 

For any team that is challenging for promotion, squad rotation is key to keeping your players fit and ready at hectic times of the campaign.

Bridcutt and Clough would add to the already fierce competition for places in Phil Parkinson's squad, and that could see the players up their level of performance in the future.

It would be an ideal selection dilemma to have as a manager.

Con: Is another striker needed this month though? 

Sunderland already have the likes of Marc McNulty, Will Grigg and Charlie Wyke in their squad, and you have to question whether Clough's potential arrival is actually needed.

There's no doubting that the Reds forward has talent, but he wouldn't be a guaranteed starter for the Black Cats as they look to challenge for promotion.

Some Sunderland supporters might feel as though the wages are better spent elsewhere.