Sunderland manager Gus Poyet has confirmed that a striker is top of his wishlist in the January transfer window.
The Black Cats are the third-lowest scoring team in the Premier League this season, having netted just 16 times in 19 games.
With Poyet's side four points above the relegation zone, the Uruguayan is well aware that survival may hinge on his ability to lure a prolific goalscorer to the Stadium of Light next month.
"The easiest way to sort out a few problems in front of goal is to go and buy," he told reporters.
"Now the right price, the right player who scores goals coming here and doing it straight away - everybody is looking for the same, so it's a competition.
"There are not many, but we will try."
The North-East club travel away to champions Manchester City on New Year's Day.
