The on-loan Blackburn Rovers striker has been scouted extensively by Sunderland – so imagine the outcry if he chooses Sheffield United instead.
The news that Sunderland manager David Moyes is scrambling around the Scottish second division for potential bargain signings somewhat epitomises the extent of the financial restrictions facing The Black Cats, The Chronicle reports.
And The Sun’s claims that The Black Cats have sent scouts to watch Blackburn Rovers striker Sam Gallagher twice inside a week in February will hardly inspire a fanbase frustrated at the lack of quality additions.
The 21-year-old has caught the eye on loan from Southampton this season although his rather moderate goal tally, ten in 34, for the Championship strugglers hardly screams at a potential top tier centre-forward capable of easing the pressure on sole hitman Jermaine Defoe.
However, The Sun claims that League One’s runaway leaders Sheffield United, who could actually find themselves in the same division as Sunderland next season barring another Houdini-esque escape act, could also make an audacious approach for Gallagher in the summer with manager Chris Wilder on the lookout for a striker.
The former England Under-20 international’s aerial prowess and physicality could make him a useful addition for a Championship club, as shown by his impressive impact at a crisis-ridden Blackburn side this season.
However, although Sunderland are under severe strain to retain their Premier League status, it would still be a major surprise if The Blades were able to beat The Black Cats to Gallagher’s signature.
Although one still wonders if he would be the man capable of dragging Sunderland up the table.
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