Mike Williamson says Carlisle United are aiming to seal a deal for a loan striker before the weekend.

The Blues head coach confirmed that an 11th January signing is close to being confirmed.

United are moving to reinforce their attacking options after the recent loan departure of Luke Armstrong.

A new frontman to join fellow transfer window additions Joe Hugill and Cedwyn Scott is now firmly on the agenda as Carlisle fight for League Two survival.

Williamson confirmed to the News & Star that it would be a loan signing.

Speaking after last night’s 1-0 defeat at Notts County, the Blues boss added: “It sounds close, as long as all parties can agree.

“Hopefully we should be announcing it before the weekend.”

Williamson said he was due to speak to sporting director Rob Clarkson, who was at Meadow Lane last night, for an update on the situation.

United’s boss said Carlisle were “specifically” looking at the attacking end of the pitch in the market right now, though he did not rule out other business.

Asked if Paul Dummett’s hamstring injury could mean a further defender being needed, he said: “Possibly – we’ll assess it.

“We’ve got Barcs [Ben Barclay] and Jack Ellis, so we still have got strength in depth there.

“But the industry is as tough as any industry I know, and the fact is that if someone comes up with quality then yes, we're open to bringing them in.”

Manchester United loanee Hugill came close to opening his account against Notts County but hit the inside of the post in the second half as United went down to defeat.

Fellow forward Scott limped off in the second half but Williamson said that was just down to cramp.

Another attacking option, Stephen Wearne, missed the game with the illness that also kept him out of Saturday’s win at Fleetwood Town, but Williamson said the ex-MK Dons man is improving and could be back to face Swindon Town on Saturday.