Ross will be happy if he can strike a deal

ACK Ross expects the arrival of a striker to conclude Sunderland’s January transfer business - unless there are any departures or serious injuries.

The Black Cats’ boss went into the window looking to add a centre-back and an out-and-out striker and has already filled one of those vacancies with Burnley defender Jimmy Dunne arriving on loan this week.

Sunderland have also launched a move to bring Wigan Athletic striker Will Grigg to Wearside - and if he signs it would mean Ross has the targets he was looking for.

There is still a possibility Sunderland may lose players in the window and Josh Maja’s future remains up in the air, the 20-year-old out of contract in the summer and so far yet to sign a new deal.

If anyone leaves, Ross would have to go back into the market to find a replacement.

However, unless that situation arises, he will be content with his squad once a striker arrives.

Jerome Sinclair’s loan stay at Sunderland has been cut short and he has returned to Watford - but that had already been factored into Ross’ plans.

He said: “I would think that would be the end of our business this month once a striker arrives - unless we lose anybody or unless we pick up an unforeseen injury.

“Despite Jerome leaving, I was looking to bring in a striker in any case.

“Jerome is a striker who could play in wide areas as well but we had already identified we needed an out-and-out forward.

“Sometimes when I look at opposition teams when I am preparing for games I see their options and we really only have Charlie Wyke and Josh Maja.

“Charlie is really the only No 9 we have because Josh plays in a slightly different way, so I would have said we needed another one like Charlie in our squad.” ■■SUNDERLAND will play Manchester City Under-21s in the quarter-finals of the Checkatrade Trophy.

The Black Cats will take on City’s academy side at the Stadium of Light, the tie to be played the week beginning January 21.

Jack Ross’ side thrashed Newcastle United Under-21s 4-0 in the third round on Tuesday night.