Lee Johnson reveals how Sunderland's takeover talks will affect his January transfer business

The Black Cats are set to have a new majority shareholder later in the month, with Kyril Louis-Dreyfus having agreed a deal to purchase a stake in the club from Stewart Donald.

But with that deal still going through EFL checks, Johnson is having to kick-off the transfer window without total clarity.

The head coach, however, was keen to ensure supporters that plans were in place to strengthen the squad during January.

When asked about his aims for the window, Johnson said: "To try and get better, that’s something we’re trying to do.

"Obviously we’re in a position with the ownership, as you will have seen in public, at the moment where it’s not total clarity what we can and can’t do.

"I think it’s about presenting the right option and we’re on it, I can assure everybody of that.

"We’ve got very healthy lists and information to go with those lists, and I’m very conscious when bringing any player in that the group sits well with it.

"Sometimes it’ll be an unfashionable signing, sometimes it’ll be a fashionable signing – and I guess people just have to trust over a period of time that we make the right decision for the long-term future of the club in terms of getting better instantly and over a period of time.”

The League One salary cap will ultimately dictate what business Sunderland can do this month, with loan deals for youngsters already touted as a potential option.

But Johnson says the focus isn’t squarely on temporary signings – and says the Black Cats have to plan ahead when looking at their business.

"I think at the moment we’re looking across the board,” he added.

"The situation is fluid. It’s quite common knowledge that we have players out of contract in the summer so we’re susceptible to late and fast approaches for some of our players.

"We’ve got to be ready for all of it and it’s almost like a pre-mortem where we're ready for any eventuality – and I think we are.”