Sunderland will reportedly have to outbid several of their Premier League rivals if they are to sign Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Liam Bridcutt in January.
The Black Cats brought in 14 fresh faces in the summer, but new boss Gus Poyet is expected to be given a licence to recruit his own signings in the New Year.
Bridcutt was one of the Uruguayan's key players during his time in charge of the Seagulls, and the Sunderland Echo claims that Poyet may return to his old club to try to bring the 24-year-old to Wearside.
However, Crystal Palace, who had a £1.75m offer for Bridcutt rejected in the last transfer window, are expected to pursue him again when the deadline is lifted and rival Sunderland for his signature.
Bridcutt has 18 months remaining on his Amex Stadium contract and Brighton are believed to be resigned to losing him either in January or next summer, if they cannot gain promotion to the top flight.
