Sunderland AFC closing in on transfer targets as Phil Parkinson confirms interest in Liam Boyce and Kyle Lafferty

The attacking duo have both been linked with the Stadium of Light in recent weeks, and Parkinson has confirmed that the duo are both on his radar as he seeks attacking reinforcements.

Parkinson has made no secret of his desire to bring in some extra firepower during the window, and has previously confirmed his interest in Bristol City’s Antoine Semenyo.

Lafferty, however, was understood to have been shown around the Academy of Light earlier this week and is currently a free agent – which could simplify sealing a deal – and the Sunderland boss admitted he is one of a host of names being considered.

“Kyle is one of a number of players we’ve been speaking about as a staff,” said Parkinson.

“He’s a free agent and he’s on our list.”

Boyce has also been touted as a potential target and, while Parkinson was coy on his interest, he had plenty of praise for the Burton Albion striker.

The Northern Irish international could be available for as little as £250,000 this month, but is also attracting interest from Hearts.

“Obviously Liam is under contract at Burton,” explained Parkinson.

“He’s a good player, has scored goals at this level, but he’s under contract so it’s a difficult one for me to speak about.

Sunderland are yet to seal a January incoming, but have sanctioned the exits of both Laurens De Bock and Dylan McGeouch since the turn of the month.

Parkinson now expects incomings to ramp-up, confirming he is ‘closing in’ on a number of targets.

“I don’t think outgoings will be too busy,” he claimed.

“Ins, we are closing in on a number of targets and we’ve got quite a list of players in terms of if we don’t get the first one we want, we’ve got other options.

“We’re working towards though but as ever, we’re competing with other clubs.

“If a front player becomes available that we feel can improve us, we will try and bring one in.”