The football season may nearly be finished, but the summer transfer window is right around the corner - commencing in just over a month’s time.
Clubs from up and down the country are preparing to strengthen their squad for next season, in a bid to sure up glaring weaknesses and push beyond expectation.
Here are the latest rumours from around the Championship:
Stoke City keeper Jack Butland has been linked with Crystal Palace and Bournemouth in the summer following his side’s failure to bounce straight back up, he is reportedly keen on a return to the Premier League. (Football Insider)
Stoke are set to demand £30m for Butland as he 26-year-old looks to head back to the top flight this summer. Butland has two years left on his contract with the Potters and they aren't willing to let him leave on the cheap. (The Telegraph)
Chelsea offer major transfer hint over future of Aston Villa loan star Tammy Abraham
If Wilfried Zaha heads out the exit door at Crystal Palace this summer, they reportedly want Jack Grealish as a replacement. Zaha has spoken out about his desire to play for a Champions League side and Palace could allow him to leave after the end of the season. Grealish penned a new five-year deal at Villa in September but they could struggle to hold onto him if they miss out on promotion.
Aston Villa look set to miss out on securing a permanent deal for Tammy Abraham, with Wolves ready to make a bid. The suggestion comes from EFL pundit Noel Whelan who indicated Wolves will make their move this summer. (Football Insider)
Leeds United could suffer from Arsenal’s reported interest in Ryan Fraser, as Bournemouth will look to replace him with their star man Dan James. James nearly signed for Leeds in January but his impressive form for Swansea City has raised the prospect of the winger heading to the Premier League. (Daily Star)
Sheffield Wednesday are looking to tie down 34-year-old shot stopper Keiren Westwood on a new deal. The goalkeeper has been a star man under Steve Bruce after his arrival but his current contract expires at the end of the season. (Sheffield Star)
Leeds and Crystal Palace will battle it out in the summer for powerful striker Sasa Kalajdzic from Austrian club FC Admira Wacker Modling. The 21-year-old has attracted attention after scoring five goals in his last five matches. (Daily Mail)
