Sunderland 'target' Ethan Ross is currently on trial with Premier League side Southampton.
The Daily Record claims that the out-of-contract Aberdeen youngsters is currently on the south coast bidding to with a contract with the Saints.
The 19-year-old who, who was linked with Sunderland earlier this summer, has been training with Ralph Hassenhuttl's side for the past few weeks.
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Ross failed to agree to a contract extension with the Dons and had been on the Black Cats radar according to reports.
However, Aberdeen now look set for a six-figure compensation package if he signs on the dotted line with Southampton's development squad.
The compensation fee may have deterred Sunderland in their approach for the youngster, who spent last season on loan at Raith Rovers.
It's unclear at this stage whether the Black Cats approached the former Dons winger, but Lee Johnson's side are in need of reinforcements.
At the time of writing, the Wearsiders have made three additions to their squad ahead of the 2021/22 League One campaign.
Alex Pritchard, Corry Evans and Callum Doyle have signed on the dotted line, with the latter of the two making their first appearance for the club in the win over Hearts at the weekend.
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