Fraizer Campbell remains Steve Bruce's top target as Hull City step up their search for a new striker following the loss of Sone Aluko to injury.
Although Bruce admits signing a striker before the weekend will prove difficult, the need for fresh attacking blood has been sharpened significantly in the last 48 hours.
Having already allowed Aaron Mclean to join Ipswich on loan this month, the loss of Aluko leaves only Nick Proschwitz and Jay Simpson as recognised striking options.
Sunderland's Campbell remains the priority, although the net will be cast further afield with just 14 days until the transfer window closes.
"Losing Sone heightens the need to act but, as I've always said, it's very difficult to get a striker in January," said Bruce, who is also making enquiries in a bid to bring Fulham keeper David Stockdale back to the KC on loan.
"We'll do the best we possibly can. The owners have done fantastically well over the last couple of weeks with the signings of David Meyler and Robbie Brady, but they realise now we're in a bit of a pickle so we'll see what we can do.
"There's nothing on the agenda as we stand but we're always looking."
Although disappointed by Ahmed Elmohamady's recall to Sunderland, sources have suggested to the Mail that he could yet return to the KC once injuries clear at the Stadium of Light.
The player is known to have enjoyed his loan spell at the Tigers, making 23 appearances in the Championship.
Not part of Martin O'Neill's long-term plans at Sunderland, dialogue between the two clubs will continue over the coming weeks, with a second loan spell still a possibility.
In the meantime Liam Rosenior will fill his role at right wing-back.
