Sunderland's current top transfer target, Will Grigg, has given the Black Cats a boost as his current injury is not as bad as first thought, as reported by the Sunderland Echo.

The Black Cats have had a number of bids turned down for the Wigan forward, who hit 24 goals for them last season as they earned the League One title and a return to the Championship.

He's been used sparingly this season and that has prompted manager Jack Ross to make him a priority in this transfer window.

He has four goals in 18 matches for Wigan, as well as one strike for Northern Ireland in his three outings since the start of the season.

Grigg rolled his ankle after coming on for Wigan in their 1-0 defeat at Sheffield Wednesday this weekend and there were fears he could be set for a prolonged spell on the side-lines.

Those fears have proven to be unfounded, which will ensure Sunderland remain in the hunt for his services.

The Black Cats moved into the semi-final of the EFL trophy last night after beating Manchester City Under 21s, leaving them fighting on two fronts this season.

The Verdict

I can't see Grigg signing for Sunderland, no matter how hard they try.

He's a top striker at this level and I'm not sure the Black Cats have the financial clout to make him theirs.

He's still getting regular game time for Wigan too and would surely not drop back into League One, especially as Sunderland are slowly losing the momentum that saw them surge up to second place.