Sunderland are bracing themselves for interest in key striker Ross Stewart from Championship rivals Southampton before the end of the transfer window, according to journalist Scott Burns.
The Saints are in the market for a new striker following the imminent departure of Che Adams and reports emerged yesterday that Aberdeen attacker Bojan Miovski was topping their list. The Macedonian international has been a big hit for the Scottish Premiership club since signing from MTK Budapest last summer, scoring 21 goals in 46 appearances in all competitions.
It is claimed that Southampton boss Russell Martin has been an admirer of the player since his days at Swansea City and he could be an attractive prospect, with Aberdeen valuing the 24-year-old at just over £4 million.
However, Scott Burns states that whilst there is interest in Miovski, Sunderland striker Ross Stewart is Martin’s primary target.
https://twitter.com/ScottBurns75/status/1695529524413235574
Sunderland have struggled in front of goal so far this season and drew a blank yesterday in the 0-0 draw with Coventry City. Stewart has been injured since picking up an Achilles tendon injury in January, although is expected to return after the international break next month.
The 27-year-old hit 11 goals in just 15 appearances last season and has also attracted the interest of Scottish giants Rangers. His current contract at the Stadium of Light is due to expire at the end of the season and an offer of an extension was reportedly rejected in July.
Sunderland will not have given up hope of tying their key man down to fresh terms, although the Black Cats will also realise that this could be their last opportunity to secure a fee for the player.
Southampton remain unbeaten so far this season following yesterday’s 2-1 win over Queens Park Rangers and sit fourth in the table on 10 points.
Writer’s View
It was always likely that Sunderland would face late interest in Ross Stewart, although they will be disappointed that it has come from one of their Championship rivals.
Rangers’ interest has been well documented and it was thought that the Glasgow giants may return to the fray in the coming days, with the transfer window set to close at the end of next week.
Tony Mowbray’s fight to bring in another attacker has so far stalled and they lost out in the race for Fulham starlet Jay Stansfield earlier this week, with the former Exeter City loanee joining Birmingham City on a season-long loan. A replacement needs to be found quickly, especially if Stewart will be moving on for pastures new.
