This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...
Sunderland manager Phil Parkinson is looking to add to his squad during the January transfer window, with the Black Cats strongly linked with Bristol City forward Antoine Semenyo as Parkinson looks to add to his side's firepower, according to Bristol Post reporter Gregor MacGregor in a BristolLive Q&A (12.25pm) with fans.
Sunderland may not get things all their own way though, with the 19-year-old forward understood to favour a move to Doncaster Rovers as they will likely offer a better guarantee of playing time.
So would Semenyo be a good addition for the Black Cats and is he actually needed?
We discuss.........
Chris Gallagher
"He would be a decent signing.
"Firstly, you have to say that Sunderland have plenty of options up top, so I would expect a few departures before they brought in Semenyo as Phil Parkinson needs to try and work with a more balanced squad.
"However, he would provide the team with something different as he looks to play on the shoulder, has pace and could work well with a target man.
"Despite that, the signing of Kyle Lafferty, and perhaps Gary Madine, means that Sunderland aren't desperate for a new number nine so there's no real pressure to bring in the striker but if they do he will be able to do a job in the third tier."
Can you get 100% in this Sunderland quiz? Have a go now!
Jacob Potter
“I would have said they needed him if you asked me a month ago.
“But Sunderland have hit form at the ideal time over the festive period, and they’re now serious contenders for promotion.
“Phil Parkinson’s side are unbeaten in their last six games, and I think the main reason for that is the consistency in his team selection.
“The likes of Chris Maguire and Charlie Wyke have been key to their upturn in results, and they’ll be hoping that can continue as the season progresses.
“Semenyo is a good player, and I think he’d be a good addition for another League One side.
“But I have my doubts as to whether he’d get regular minutes with the Black Cats, which is ultimately what Bristol City will want to further the youngster’s development.
“He isn’t needed at the moment as Sunderland have better options available to them.”
George Brooks
"Antoine Semenyo is an exciting young player and he could be a good signing for Sunderland.
"He probably isn't going to get too many chances in the team at Bristol City, but doesn't mean that he wouldn't be able to make an impact for the Black Cats in League One.
"Sunderland have been able to turn their fortunes around in recent weeks, but it's important that they add some more quality to their squad in the January transfer window, especially if they want to go on and win promotion.
"Semenyo should would be able to provide the Black Cats with some extra depth and quality, but it seems as though he's tempted by the chance to move to Doncaster."