Sheffield Wednesday ‘expected’ to beat Sunderland and Birmingham City to signing of former Barnsley forward.
Sheffield Wednesday are reportedly expected to beat rivals such as Sunderland to the signing of Ike Ugbo.
The forward’s stock soared during the second half of last season, which he spent on loan at Hillsborough. He made an immediate impact upon his arrival from Troyes, scoring seven goals in 19 appearances for the Owls and becoming a firm favourite among fans.
Following the conclusion of his loan spell, it became apparent his exploits had put the Canada-capped marksman in the shop window. He has been linked with an array of clubs, with Sunderland, Birmingham City and Stoke City all credited with interest.
Wednesday are understood to have been keen for Ugbo to return all summer, with a deal now appearing to be edging closer. According to The Star, progress has been made with a permanent deal potentially being wrapped up in the coming days.
Ike Ugbo has been chased by a raft of clubs since the end of his loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday. Image: Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images
Ike Ugbo has been chased by a raft of clubs since the end of his loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday. Image: Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images
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Personal terms are believed to have been agreed, with Ugbo possibly being unveiled before this weekend’s season opener against Plymouth Argyle.
Beating Sunderland to a target would prove sweet for Owls supporters, considering the Black Cats edged out the Owls in the battle to sign winger Ian Poveda. Leeds United released the former Owls loanee and he had been linked with a return to S6, but he instead joined their Championship rivals.
Wednesday have conducted plenty of business this summer, seemingly learning from the mistakes of last summer with quick and decisive action in the transfer market.
Among their summer arrivals is goalkeeper James Beadle, who played with Ugbo last season as a loanee. He has completed another temporary switch to Hillsborough from Brighton & Hove Albion.
Wednesday have also recruited the likes of ex-Premier League defender Yan Valery, England-capped midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah and experienced forward Jamal Lowe.
