Sunderland could be pipped to striker 'target' Jerry Yates - as League One rivals prepare an offer

The striker netted 14 times during a loan spell with Swindon last season, and is reportedly being eyed by the Black Cats and Blackpool this summer after an impressive 2019/20 campaign.

Rotherham recently triggered a clause in Yates’ contract to extend his deal by twelve months, ensuring they will receive a fee for the 23-year-old should he depart this summer.

And Swindon are set to become the first side to test the Millers’ resolve – with manager Richie Wellens revealing the club are preparing an offer for the Doncaster-born forward.

Speaking to BBC Wiltshire, he said: “We’re going to put an offer into Rotherham in the next 48 hours, and we’ll see what Rotherham say.

“But we can only pay what we can pay in the current market.”

Sunderland, meanwhile, are likely to sign at least one striker this summer – with Phil Parkinson confirming this week that he is targeting ‘seven or eight’ new faces.

"We're looking to piece the squad together and get players in in the positions we feel we need to strengthen, to make us stronger than we were last year,” he said, speaking to BBC Newcastle.

“We're looking at getting around seven to eight players. Just like any summer it's about being patient and making sure you get the best players that are available within your budget.”