Sunderland AFC transfer state of play: Jobe Bellingham, Louie Barry price-tag, Anthony Patterson | OneFootball

Some big names have been linked with moves in and out of Sunderland.

Regis Le Bris confirmed that the Black Cats will be targeting attacking players in the January window, with a striker and a winger the likely targets.

As for departures, a wealth of Sunderland players have been linked with moves away from the club but the Wearsiders will be hoping to hold on to their prized assets.

Football League World takes a look at the latest transfer news surrounding the club in what will be a pivotal window for the Black Cats.

Jobe Bellingham continues to be linked with top clubs

Jobe Bellingham has emerged as one of the most targeted players in the Championship this season after an emphatic start to the campaign for Sunderland.

The midfielder is developing at a rapid pace and a host of clubs are said to be monitoring the player as he looks destined to play at the highest level.

Dortmund have held the most significant interest in Bellingham, with Sky Sports reporting that the German giants want the teenager to follow in his brother's footsteps.

Arsenal are the most recent club to be credited with an interest in the midfielder, with reports suggesting that the Gunners have sent scouts to watch the 19-year-old but that the Championship promotion hopefuls are reluctant to let him leave.

Aston Villa set huge Louie Barry asking price

As Sunderland aim to bolster their front line this window, Louie Barry has been a name regularly linked with a move to Wearside.

The winger enjoyed an emphatic loan spell with Stockport County, scoring 15 goals and assisting three times in 23 appearances for the League One outfit.

Barry was recalled by Aston Villa as they were believed to be sanctioning a Championship loan move for the player in order to boost his development.

However, fresh reports have emerged from The Telegraph that Villa are now looking to sell Barry and value him at £12.5m. If reports are true, then the player's price tag will almost certainly deter the Black Cats and other Championship clubs seeking his services.

Anthony Patterson plays down transfer links

Anthony Patterson was one of the heroes for Sunderland on New Year's Day, as the goalkeeper saved Kieffer Moore's penalty to secure the Wearsiders a 2-1 win over Sheffield United.

The shot-stopper has been linked with several Premier League clubs over the course of the season, with Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Arsenal all credited with interest.

When asked if he was aware of interest in his services after the win over the Blades, Patterson said: “No, like I always say, I’m a Sunderland player, and I’m concentrating on this season and getting to Sunderland where they belong really.”

Patterson's response was sure to go down well with Black Cats supporters, who will be hoping the goalkeeper can lead Sunderland to the Premier League.

Sunderland's squad has been stretched in recent weeks, emphasising the need for recruitment at the club. Barry would be the perfect signing for the Wearsiders, but competition is fierce for his services.

As for outgoings, speculation is bound to mount, but the club will be hopeful of holding on to the likes of Bellingham and Patterson past January.