Sunderland AFC transfer rumours: Lee Johnson 'makes enquiry' for in-demand striker attracting top flight interest

The 23-year-old has been in fine form for the Scottish Premier League outfit this term, netting 12 times in 26 appearances since his summer move from Dunfermline.

And such form has naturally attracted interest, with Sheffield United among the sides south of the border to have been linked with a January move.

But fresh reports in the Scottish Sun suggest that it’s the Black Cats who have made their move for Nisbet – having enquired about Hibs’ valuation of the striker.

The Easter Road outfit, managed by former Sunderland chief Jack Ross, are keen to retain the striker's services but could be tempted should a big-money bid arrive this month.

They splashed out around £250,000 on landing Nisbet over the summer, so would be looking for a sum far in excess of that in order to part with one of their prize assets.

Sunderland are known to be in the marketing for attacking options this month, with pace and power top of head coach Lee Johnson’s wishlist.

When asked about his aims for this window last wee, Johnson said: "To try and get better, that’s something we’re trying to do.

"Obviously we’re in a position with the ownership, as you will have seen in public, at the moment where it’s not total clarity what we can and can’t do.

"I think it’s about presenting the right option and we’re on it, I can assure everybody of that.

"We’ve got very healthy lists and information to go with those lists, and I’m very conscious when bringing any player in that the group sits well with it.

"Sometimes it’ll be an unfashionable signing, sometimes it’ll be a fashionable signing – and I guess people just have to trust over a period of time that we make the right decision for the long-term future of the club in terms of getting better instantly and over a period of time.”

Sunderland are understood to be keen on landing Forest Green midfielder Carl Winchester, while Barnsley winger Luke Thomas has also been linked with a move.

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