KARL Robinson has revealed he wants to sign Sunderland striker Will Grigg on a permanent basis before tomorrow's transfer deadline.

The Oxford United boss admitted it was a long shot, but wants to pursue the possibility.

The striker is out of favour at Sunderland, 12 months on from joining for £4million from Wigan Athletic.

Grigg has reportedly turned down approaches from Salford City and Bradford City, because he did not want to drop into Sky Bet League Two.

Also read: January transfer window - League One ins and outs

Oxford United are looking for an extra attacking option before the window closes at 11pm tomorrow.

And while Grigg has netted just eight goals in a year on Wearside, he thrived under Robinson - scoring 22 times to fire Milton Keynes Dons to promotion from League One five seasons ago.

The U's boss said: "I want to buy Will Grigg and I want to buy a right back.

"There are certain positions I think we need to improve on.

"Griggy is obviously available and is someone I like. I think he can add to what we’ve already got.

"I think Dan Agyei needs to go out and play on loan."

There are several big hurdles for United to overcome, specifically the level of the fee and the 28-year-old's wage demands.

Sunderland may also think twice about doing a deal with one of their direct promotion rivals - even with owner Stewart Donald being a U's fan.

Robinson said: "Don’t forget he went for £4million. We don’t have that.

"We have asked the question, but whether he’s available or not (to United) we just have to wait and see.

"I just don’t know where things may lie.

"I don’t think it will materialise personally, but I know a lot of people are speculating on it.

"He is a player I like, if you’re asking me I’d definitely do it."

Speaking earlier this week about the potential of an exit before Friday, Black Cats boss Phil Parkinson told the Sunderland Echo: "If something came up and we could get another player in, and it suited all parties, then that could happen.

“Will won't go somewhere he doesn't want to go, and we won't let him go unless we're happy with the cover as well.”