It's not been the best of seasons for either the Sunderland nor the Crystal Palace fans propping up the bar in the Transfer Tavern, with both sets of punters still fearing relegation. 

That's exactly why the January transfer market provides so much excitement for the Black Cats and the Eagles in the bar, as they hope both David Moyes and Sam Allardyce will draft in some much-needed reinforcements.

Well, there's some cheers from our south London locals today following reports from HITC Sport.

They claim Big Sam is interested in a double raid on his former Wearside employers, as Palace reportedly line up moves for both Lamine Kone and Patrick van Aanholt.

Both men proved imperious for him at the Stadium of Light as they staved off relegation last term and it's thought Sunderland could be forced to sell before they buy.

Contact is understood to have been made, though the Black Cats are thought to be keen to keep the duo as they desperately try and beat the drop once more.

Will Big Sam improve Palace? Let us know below...