Interest in Nottingham Forest-linked Stephen Humphrys is said to be stepping up ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Reds are one of a number of Championship clubs reportedly keen on the in-demand Rochdale striker.
Blackburn Rovers, Bristol City, Preston North End, Sheffield Wednesday and Swansea City have also been credited with an interest in the 23-year-old.
But it is Stoke City who are said to have stolen a march on their rivals ready for when the transfer window opens.
According to The72, the Potters “have now approached Rochdale about a possible summer acquisition” as the current season comes to an end.
Humphrys is out of contract in 2022 and has bagged 11 goals in 30 appearances for his team this term, although was unable to prevent relegation from League One.
Strengthening his attacking resources will be a priority for Forest boss Chris Hughton when the transfer window opens.
His team have struggled to find the back of the net and have spent the campaign battling at the bottom end of the table.
The aim is to be competing for a top six spot next season, but the Reds need to bolster their squad to do that.
They have been linked with a number of forward players, with Blackpool’s Jerry Yates and former Red Britt Assombalonga believed to be on their list of potential targets.
“It will be a busy summer,” said Hughton at the weekend.
“There are two things, one is how much business we do - that you never know. But it will be busy, because that’s normal and we are looking to bring players in.
“We have been spending a lot of time over the last few weeks looking at players, looking at videos, seeing who’s available, who might be available and who might be available on loan.”
