Sunderland are awaiting news from the EFL to see whether clubs will be able to further strengthen their squads this season.
It comes after the EFL decided to scrap the League One and League Two salary caps, which had been brought in to try and make clubs more sustainable.
Lee Johnson says he does not want to the Black Cats squad for the sake of it, unless the right deal becomes available.
He said: "I'm not 100% sure on that [whether clubs will be able to bring in free agents after the salary cap news]. I do believe there's an EFL meeting today.
"I think all those questions will be posed at that point. Whether or not the salary cap consideration is still this season because clubs have got their squads.
"It may be deemed as an advantage for some of the clubs to change their tact and overspend, as it may be perceived. Or, they may say fill your boots guys and do what you want.
"At the moment, I don't really want to add to the squad if we can help it. Unless, of course, Lionel Messi becomes available for a price we can afford."
