The future of Billy Sharp at Sheffield United has been the hot topic of conversation amongst the Bramall Lane faithful in recent weeks. 

The forward has previously been linked with a move to the likes of Leeds United, Nottingham Forest and Sunderland, as he continues to struggle for consistent game time in Chris Wilder's squad.

But Wilder has recently revealed to BBC Sheffield's Andy Giddings that Sharp has told him that he wants to remain with the Blades and not move elsewhere anytime soon.

Sunderland were targeting a move for the experienced striker this month, as they looked to add additional firepower to their attacking options.

Phil Parkinson's side are currently sat seventh in the League One table, and will be hoping they can make a timely return to the Championship this term.

But they'll have to look elsewhere now after this update on Sharp, and the clock is ticking with the January transfer window closing on Friday 31st January.

We take a look at THREE alternative that Sunderland simply must consider signing after this recent snub by Sharp.

Omar Bogle

Bogle is unlikely to be near the Cardiff starting XI at the moment, and a loan move away from the Bluebirds would be the best move for both parties involved.

The striker was sent out on loan to Portsmouth for the second-half of last year's campaign, where he scored five goals in 14 appearances for the promotion-chasing side. 

Bogle has made 11 appearances so far this season for Cardiff, although he hasn't featured since they beat Stoke City back in November, which could hint that Neil Harris isn't too fond of him at this moment in time.

Jack Marriott

Marriott has fallen down the pecking order at Derby County since Phillip Cocu took charge of proceedings.

The forward made 44 appearances for the Rams last season and scored 14 goals in all competitions as they narrowly missed out on promotion to the Premier League after a defeat to Aston Villa in the Championship play-off final.

But with the return of Chris Martin to Derby, Marriott has seen his game time in this year's campaign limited.

The 25-year-old has made just nine league starts this term, and it wouldn't come as a surprise to see him potentially heading out on loan in this month's transfer window.

Troy Parrott

The Tottenham Hotspur youngster has made two senior appearances so far this season, and could be looking for a loan move away from the Premier League side for the remainder of the season.

It seems unlikely that he'll be getting in their starting XI anytime soon, and it's clear to see that he's highly rated with the Spurs coaching staff.

Parrott has netted six goals in just four UEFA Youth League appearances this term, four of which came in one game against Red Star Belgrade earlier in this year's campaign.

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