Sunderland are interested in sealing a move for Aston Villa striker Cameron Archer, according to talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook.
The Black Cats may need to fend off competition from Portsmouth for the forward's signature as Danny Cowley's side are also keeping tabs on the 20-year-old.
Archer's current deal at Villa is set to run until 2025 and thus it is unlikely that they will be willing to sell him during the January window.
However, as per a recent report from the Birmingham Mail, Villa boss Steven Gerrard is believed to be open to the possibility of sanctioning a temporary exit for the forward in order to provide him with the opportunity to play regular first-team football.
Currently behind Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings in the pecking order at Villa Park, Archer has only made three appearances for the club in the top-flight during the current campaign.
Utilised by Villa in the EFL Trophy as part of their Under-21 side, the forward showcased his talent against League One opposition earlier this season as he scored against Wycombe Wanderers, Burton Albion and Milton Keynes Dons.
The forward also managed to find the back of the net during Villa's clashes with Barrow and Chelsea in the League Cup last year.
The Verdict
If this report turns out to be true, Sunderland ought to push ahead with this particular pursuit as Archer clearly possesses an abundance of talent.
Having already proven that he is capable of causing issues for League One sides this season in the EFL Trophy, Archer may be able to help the Black Cats reach new heights in this particular division if he hits the ground running at the Stadium of Light.
When you consider that Lee Johnson may need to bolster his options up-front due to the fact that Nathan Broadhead is set to be out of action for the foreseeable future due to a hamstring injury, a move for Archer could prove to be somewhat of a masterstroke.
In order to avoid the possibility of missing out on the Villa man to Portsmouth, Sunderland will need to act quickly to secure his services.