Sunderland are closing in on their first signing of the January transfer window.

The Black Cats have endured a frustrating stat to the new season and find themselves in a position where they need to make up some serious ground if they're to put themselves back in contention for promotion to the Championship.

Supporters will certainly be hoping that this latest breakthrough can help them achieve their objectives.

Reports from Football Insider have claimed that the Wearsiders have agreed a deal to sign Carl Winchester.

The Forest Green Rovers star has been the subject of intense interest so far this month with Lee Johnson's side looking to add real quality to the central midfield area.

With that in mind it seems that an announcement could be on the horizon with Sunderland having agreed a deal to sign the 27-year-old.

Winchester has enjoyed an excellent season so far having scored twice in 21 appearances from a defensive midfield position.

That has helped Forest Green to their current position as they sit in third place in League Two and firmly on track to challenge for promotion to the third tier.

However if reports are to be believed then they may have to continue their push without Winchester as he looks set for a big move to the Stadium Of Light.

Quiz: Have any of these 22 players ever been in Sunderland’s academy?

 

The Verdict

It'll be interesting to see how this deal works out.

Many will have hoped that Sunderland would aim higher as they target potential additions but given the financial restrictions on the EFL at the moment it's perhaps a smart move to make.

The hope is that the 27-year-old will be able to hit the ground running - something that Lee Johnson will be delighted if he can do.