Bristol City are approaching a crucial time in Nigel Pearson's tenure, and the summer transfer window will help decide whether he stays or not.
The 59-year-old is entering the last of his three-year deal and when he arrived he wanted to take the club in to the Premier League. He's recorded his highest finish as Robins boss this season, but that was 14th-place, and they're still a few places and points off of reaching a play-off spot. A top six position has been spoken about, and there's a genuine feeling around the place right now that is achievable after a positive end to the campaign.
For the past few seasons, there's been the need to let high-earning players leave, whilst not always being replaced. The Robins transfer recruitment team have mainly looked to League One, signing free transfers or young players who have the potential to develop in to Championship players. We've seen the success of Alex Scott, as a reason to be optimistic when it comes to signing unknown talents and then developing them. The team has also relied on academy players, and right now the clubs season ticket campaign is based on the likes of Max O'Leary, Sam Bell, Tommy Conway and Zak Vyner all being a huge part of the team going forward.
There's a good squad right now at City, but there's the need for reinforcements and according to Nigel Pearson, they are 'close' on a number of targets. Joe Bryan and Ross McCrorie are expected to join in the next few weeks which will kick off their transfer business nicely.
Who do the fans want though? Obviously it's not their job to suggest targets to the manager, but we've asked supporters in our big Bristol City fan survey who they'd like to see in the red and white next season. What do you think of these potential signings?
9. Cameron Brannagan
He was hyped for big things at Liverpool and made nine appearances for them but it’s at Oxford United where he’s found a home. Brannagan’s been one of their leading players for years and City like shopping at the Kassam Stadium. | Getty Images Photo: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
10. Ross Stewart
Ten goals in 13 games for the Black Cats this season and then 26 goals in 49 matches the year before is a brilliant return. Stewart is a man in demand and even though goals aren’t a problem in attack, an out and out number nine might be needed. | Getty Images Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images
11. Cameron Archer
Archer was a reported target for City last sumer but he joined Midlesbrough on loan in January. Archer scored 11 goals in 22 games for the Boro. | Getty Images Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images
12. Jeff Hendrick
An interesting suggestion... Pearson wants goals from midfield, and Jeff Hendrick scored four goals for the relegated Reading. He’s got a year to run at Newcastle United, so won’t come cheap. | Getty Images Photo: Mark Thompson/Getty Images