This is what Stewart Donald has told Phil Parkinson as Sunderland close in on their first signing

That’s according to Phil Parkinson, who remains in close dialogue with the Black Cats’ owner as he bids to seal his first winter recruit.

Donald is also engaging in takeover talks with interested parties behind the scenes, but has told Parkinson he remains 100% committed to improving the current playing squad before the end of January.

Sunderland are believed to be chasing a number of targets as they bid to bring in as many as five new faces, and Parkinson has been given the green light to strengthen his side.

When asked what Donald had told him about the window, Parkinson said: “More or less what he’s said publicly, that he’s 100% behind us improving the squad in this window.

“That’s it. He’s fully committed to continue the work he’s done and he’s come out with a statement saying he’s willing to sell the club, but while he’s here he wants to do everything he can to help us keep improving the squad.”

Parkinson has also issued a call for unity – after fans today released a statement saying they ‘welcomed’ Donald’s decision.

“I just heard about the statement before I came in,” added Parkinson.

“The supporters have said what they had to say, the chairman has responded, and nothing is going to happen overnight – I think everyone understands that.

“We really need everyone to pull together to keep this run going.”