Swansea City are reportedly ready to battle Leeds United and Crystal Palace for the signature of Reading forward Danny Loader.
The Swans might well lose Liverpool starlet Rhian Brewster, who has done tremendously since signing on loan in January, next season as Jurgen Klopp mulls over the option of including him in his first-team squad.
Therefore Steve Cooper's planning for next term is already well underway and signing a forward will likely be near the top of the list should Brewster depart.
And, according to the Daily Mail, Reading have had to withdraw their offer a new contract for Loader, 19, believed to be worth in the region of £9,000 per week, owing to the financial struggles brought on by coronavirus.
It is claimed that the prospect of landing the England Under-20 international on a free transfer would be extremely appealing to Swansea, but it will also be of interest to the likes of Leeds and Crystal Palace, both of whom are also credited with a strong interest.
It is thought the prospect of signing Loader, who has one goal in 12 appearances for the Royals this term, on a free transfer will attract further interest from across Europe.
Brighton chasing Middlesbrough starlet
Brighton & Hove Albion have enquired about Middlesbrough’s Marcus Tavernier, according to reports .
Tavernier, 21, is a product of Boro’s academy and has been capped at youth level for England.
The Daily Mail claim that as well as the Seagulls, Watford, Crystal Palace and Burnley have registered an interest in the midfielder, who has managed two goals in 32 appearances for Jonathan Woodgate’s side this season.
Tavernier is the younger brother of former Newcastle defender James Tavernier.
Hull and Barnsley chasing Burton midfielder
Scott Fraser is a target for both Hull City and Barnsley according to The Daily Record.
Fraser, 25, joined Burton from Dundee United in 2018 but he is out-of-contract at the end of the current campaign. That has put Hull and Barnsley on alert as they attempt to secure a bargain deal for the midfielder.
The Scottish midfielder has played 41 times for the Brewers this season, recording nine goals and 14 assists.
Afobe’s future up in the air
Benik Afobe has revealed he loves working under Lee Johnson as debate rages about his future.
Afobe, 27, joined Bristol City on loan from Stoke City and has become a hit with supporters. The Potters are likely to want a fee above the £5million mark, which may dissuade the Robins from moving.
Speaking about his time at the club under Johnson, Afobe told a Q&A in April :
“I think the connection we have with the fans and the love that the fans are giving me in my short time here is another thing I go home and speak about to my family. It makes me really happy.
“Also, the faith that the manager and the staff have given me. Every footballer will tell you from such a young age all you want to do is please your coaches and the manager. The faith and the confidence that he has shown in me is definitely something that I like a lot.”
