Sunderland look set for a busy end to the winter transfer window. The Black Cats remain in talks over a number of potential deals as they look to assemble a squad capable of challenging for promotion in the second half of the campaign.

Sunderland sit fourth in the Championship table ahead of Monday night's trip to take on Middlesbrough. The clash against their North East rivals takes on extra significance, with Boro also hoping to make the play-offs.

Sunderland have not ruled out a push for automatic promotion, however. And sporting director Kristjaan Speakman and recruitment chiefs behind the scenes at the Stadium of Light are continuing to work on potential deals, with a striker seen as a priority.

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Sunderland have already missed out on Tom Cannon and Ben Brereton Diaz, after their moves to promotion rivals Sheffield United. However, a spectacular swoop for Sporting CP forward Marcus Edwards can not be ruled out as Speakman looks to give Regis Le Bris the best squad he can for the run-in.

One player who won't be part of the squad, however, is Adil Aouchiche, who has joined Portsmouth on loan. The 22-year-old will spend the remainder of the 2024-25 season at Fratton Park, as the Hampshire-based club look to climb away from the relegation zone.

Since moving to the Stadium of Light in September 2023, attacking midfielder Aouchiche has made 38 appearances in all competitions. However, he has mustered just 13 league starts in that time and been handed three this season as Le Bris’ side mount a Premier League promotion challenge.

Coupled with a loan exit for the rest of the season, it suggests the player’s permanent future potentially could lie elsewhere. His departure will help free up space and budget for Sunderland to hopefully add to their ranks ahead of Monday's deadline, although Aouchiche's deal with Pompey does not include an obligation to buy.

Speakman said: “Adil has worked hard and played his part when called upon, and been a good team-mate, but competition within our squad is extremely high and his opportunities have been limited as a result.

"Naturally, he would like to play more regularly, and we believe this opportunity will enable him to do that in a competitive environment that will support his development. We wish him well and look forward to reviewing his progress at the end of the campaign.”

After making the move to Portsmouth late on Friday evening, Aouchiche took to Instagram to send a short message to Sunderland fans. The Frenchman wrote: “Wishing you all the best,” accompanied by a strength emoji alongside red and white emojis.

As well as Aouchiche's departure, Sunderland have also parted company this month with Aaron Connelly and Nazariy Rusyn, who has joined Hadjuk Split on loan. The loss of two forwards, albeit ones who weren't doing the business for Le Bris' side, shows the need for strengthening in this department before 11pm on Monday.

So far, Sunderland have added talented attacking midfielder Enzo Le Fee to their squad this window.