Sunderland may reportedly make three new signings in the January transfer window, while an update has also been given on their activity in the free agent market.

The Lowdown: Mowbray to be given funds

It has been reported that Tony Mowbray will be given funds to spend in January, providing that he can keep his team in the fight for promotion to the Premier League.

The Stadium of Light outfit are currently fifth in the Championship table on 15 points from their opening ten games, and look like they have coped with promotion from League One very well.

The Latest: Three new signings?

Writing in a Q&A session for The Sunderland Echo, journalist Phil Smith has revealed that the Wearside club will look at 'three main areas' in terms of strengthening in January.

They 'would ideally add' another striker, while they could revisit signing another defender and a versatile player to cover for Corry Evans in defensive midfield and at full-back, after failing to strengthen in those positions in the summer.

However, it is now 'highly unlikely' that they will dip into the free agent market between now and January, after being linked with a move for former Everton central midfielder Fabian Delph.

The Verdict: Ideal

It is certainly ideal for Mowbray to be able to add to his squad in January, especially after the recent injury concerns his side have had.

Both strikers Ross Stewart and Ellis Simms have been missing and on the treatment table, meaning signing another centre-forward especially will be imperative.

Nonetheless, it is good to hear that Mowbray is set to be backed by the Black Cats board, after only relatively recently taking over from Alex Neil.