What Joe Pigott has said about his future amid Sunderland, Bristol City and Luton Town links

The 27-year-old is a free agent after leaving Plough Lane and is thought to be on the radar of a number of clubs.

A report from the Portsmouth News suggests that Pigott has already held talks with Championship duo Bristol City and Luton Town – while also adding tha Sunderland are willing to offer the striker ‘big wages’ to remain in League One.

But behind the scenes, there has been a growing sense in recent months that Pigott wants to test himself in the second tier.

There was rumoured to be interest in his services from then-Championship side Wycombe Wanderers in January, while both Bristol City and Luton are now keen admirers.

The Robins are monitoring a number of strikers this summer, though – including Blackpool’s Jerry Yates – while Luton have already added the experienced Cameron Jerome to their ranks.

Sunderland could therefore offer more guaranteed game time, particularly given top scorer Charlie Wyke is expected to depart.

But if Pigott has his heart set on a move to the Championship after a highly successful two seasons in League One, then that could be a tough hurdle to navigate.

So what has the striker said about his future?

Speaking when he left AFC Wimbledon earlier this summer, Pigott said that the desire to pursue a ‘new challenge’ was behind his exit.

In a letter to fans, he wrote: “This has been the toughest decision of my career and I’ve decided that I will be looking for a new challenge.

“The rise this club has had since reforming has been remarkable and to help play a part in stabilising the club in League One has been a pleasure.

“It hasn’t been easy at times, but the spirit of the club always shined through in the end. Everyone at the club should be very excited for the future.

"I will miss everyone working at the club dearly. I’m sad to be leaving my home, but excited for what the future holds. I’m sure we will cross paths soon. Will miss you all.”

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