Three Premier League clubs have expressed interest in signing Will Smallbone.
That’s according to the Daily Mail, who have reported that Luton Town, Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth have joined the race for the midfielder.
Smallbone joined Southampton’s academy in 2008 and had only made a handful of first team appearances before he was shipped out to Stoke City on loan last summer.
The 23-year-old made 43 appearances in the Championship and bagged eight goal contributions, while his form earned him a deserved call-up to the Republic of Ireland squad.
A stellar campaign at the bet365 Stadium meant he left Stoke as a fan favourite, with Potters boss Alex Neil claiming he was a ‘completely underrated player‘.
Smallbone is now attracting interest from a number of clubs, with Sunderland one side that have been linked with him this summer. The Black Cats were joined by Blackburn Rovers and Hull City, but now face competition from the Premier League for his signature.
Despite Southampton’s relegation, Smallbone could be moved on this summer as he enters the final year of his contract. Russell Martin previously tried to sign the midfielder for Swansea City, however he looks set to cash in to secure a decent fee.
Sunderland may struggle to compete with the Premier League for Will Smallbone
While it is unclear how much Will Smallbone will cost this summer, it already seemed likely that Sunderland could be priced out of a move as the potential suitors list expanded.
Transfermarkt have placed a £3 million market value on the Southampton academy graduate, meaning the Black Cats could definitely have to fork out if they were to win the race.
Smallbone’s arrival looks even less likely following Premier League interest, with a move back to the top flight probably more tempting for the midfielder.
Born in Basingstoke, Smallbone may also prefer a move south rather than travelling to the opposite end of the country to join the Wearside club.