Sunderland's Lee Johnson has 'no problem' with Will Grigg joining Shrewsbury if loan suits all parties

Town are thought to be leading the chase for the frontman's signature on a temporary basis in a similar move that almost brought the Northern Ireland international to the club last January.

Johnson believes Shrewsbury will 'look after' the striker, who cost the Black Cats up to £4million two years ago and remains under contract in the north east next season.

But the former Wigan hitman's move to Shropshire depends on Sunderland adding more firepower to their forward ranks. They have been linked with a move for Ross County frontman Ross Stewart.

"I won't let Will out until we get one (a striker) in, and it’s as simple as that," Johnson said. "But if Shrewsbury is his desired destination, I don't have a problem with that at all.

"I know they will look after him, because don’t forget this is not Will gone for good because he is under contract here next season as well.

"But if Shrewsbury help us and it helps them and it helps Will as well, I've got no problem with that.

"At the same time, my priority is Sunderland and our first team and getting enough wins between now and the end of the season to be successful.

"Will is back training again. He trained today and he trained really well, actually.

"He would have been available to train again pretty much as of Monday this week, but due to our games and travel and recovery and what have you, today was his first session with the group in terms of a proper, organised, structured, football session."

Town pursuit for a goalscorer will have heightened after Jason Cummings was allowed to leave the club and return to Scotland, by joining Dundee.