The Black Cats are searching for as many as five new arrivals during the winter trading period, with Parkinson set to make his mark on the squad after some disappointing resuls of late.
But who could be arriving at the Stadium of Light? Scroll down and click through the pages to see who has been linked with Sunderland:
9. Owen McGinty (free agent)
Formerly of Rangers, the tricky winger was reported to be attracting interest from Sunderland, Swansea and Bournemouth. Photo: Clive Brunskill
10. Sam Winnall (Sheffield Wednesday)
The striker was a target for the Black Cats last January and - after claims Sunderland were eyeing a mystery second tier forward - was once again linked with the Stadium of Light. Wednesday, however, are reluctant to lose the striker with their forward numbers thin. Photo: Pete Norton
11. Ben Alnwick (Free agent)
The former Bolton stopper is training with the Black Cats after agreeing to end his contract in the North West. A deal looks unlikely, with two senior 'keepers already on the club's books, but nothing can be ruled out at this stage. Photo: Laurence Griffiths
12. Antoine Semenyo (Bristol City)
Phil Parkinson has confirmed his interest in the young forward, who is thought to be on the radar of a host of League One and League Two clubs. Photo: Nathan Stirk