Bristol City have a big summer in store ahead of them when it comes to the transfer window. It's going to be huge, and it's so important they get it right if they want to mount a play-off push.
The Robins are to finish below mid-table but are likely to make an improvement on their 18th and 17th placed finishes under Nigel Pearson in his previous two seasons. Pearson is entering the final year of his contract, and when he joined there was a three-year plan for the Premier League. It's going to be a tough ask to be in the promotion picture given that other clubs have bigger resources, but Coventry City, Luton and Millwall have shown that you don't have to spend big to be competitive.
Centre-back remains a priority for Pearson, but most recently he spoke of his desire for his midfielders to score more goals. Alex Scott has scored just once in the league, despite being played in his favourable position as a number ten. He's one player that might not be here in the summer because of interest from Premier League clubs, but there's been a lack of goals from his teammates too. Joe Williams' two goals this season is the most for a centre-midfielder, with the reliance of goals being placed on the forwards.
Here we look at 12 Championship midfielders who could come under consideration this summer.. Most of them we've gone for have scored goals and created them too, but there's others that are a work in progress. It's hard work persuading a player to leave a Championship rival, but with money now available, these targets we believe are realistic.
1. Callum Connolly (Blackpool)
So he may not have scored many with one goal and he’s only got one assist this season but Connolly could be a good option given he’s available on a free transfer. At 25 he’s got more than 150 appearances in the second tier, and can play in various positions. He’s a midfielder by trade but can play right-back and centre-back, perhaps Kal Naismith has his role but one to consider... Photo: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
2. Ryan Wintle (Cardiff City)
Cardiff have had their fair share of former Robins men over the years, so why not return the favour? Wintle is out of contract in 2024, and his three assists and two goals have helped the Bluebirds all but secure their second tier status for next season. Photo: Justin Setterfield/Getty Images
3. Hakeem Odoffin (Rotherham United)
Odoffin hasn’t featured all the time for Rotherham and has played just under half a season. He’s got four goals for the Millers this term though. Perhaps not a first choice but he at least has a knack for scoring. Photo: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
4. Christ Tiehi (Wigan Athletic)
No goals or assists but Christ Tiehi is an option. He’s had an interesting career path having spent time on loan in England with Woking and Tonbridge to playing in Europa Conference League with Slovan Liberec. Photo: Gareth Copley/Getty Images