Bristol City's transfer recruitment team and Nigel Pearson have a task on their hands this summer, in what is a key period for the football club.
Pearson enters the final year of his three-year contract and for the time being, he isn't interested in thrashing out new terms and instead wants to focus on completing the campaign. The Robins are just below mid-table and are on course to at least beat their lowly finishes of 17th and 18th, previously recorded under the former Leicester City boss.
Once the season concludes on May 7, technical director Brian Tinnion says that business will begin, with the potential for four new signings in the summer. City have money to spend from Antoine Semenyo's sale to AFC Bournemouth, and there is also the possibility that they will be tested for Alex Scott, who is no longer the clubs best kept secret.
Several Premier League clubs are said to be interested in the 'Guernsey Grealish' but as of yet, it is only speculation and there haven't been any concrete offers from anyone. Some fans are consigned to losing Scott, and just want to enjoy what could be the last few matches of his career. His departure isn't for certain and the club do want to hold talks about extending his contract, which would really keep the foundations in place for a strong promotion push.
This summer also sees several players out-of-contract, and at the moment there are some playing for their future. Several new contracts have been agreed, but not everyone will remain. BristolWorld takes a look at the players that could likely leave Ashton Gate this summer alongside a couple of maybes and the stars that definitely won’t be going anywhere.
9. Max O’Leary - likely to stay
O’Leary has just signed a new deal and is certain to stay after playing the waiting game to become number one. It’ll be interesting to see who challenges him next season though. | Getty Images Photo: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
10. Dylan Kadji - leave but on loan
He’s on loan at Swindon and that’ll help him given they’re pushing for the top half. He could benefit from another loan spell. | Getty Images Photo: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
11. Jay Dasilva - likely
Out of contract in the summer, and according to reports had a move to Coventry in the pipeline had that signed Luke Currie. Dasilva has a chance to earn a new deal, or impress any prospective new clubs with Kalas injured for the next few weeks. He’s been in-and-out of the team during Pearson’s tenure, and a move elsewhere could benefit both parties. | Getty Images Photo: Naomi Baker/Getty Image
12. Alex Scott - maybe
Scott is no longer City’s best kept secret and with several Premier League clubs interested, their resolve will be tested in the summer. Nige dismissed talk of a Wolves bid in January, but surely firm interest will come shortly. A best bet could be perhaps Scott being sold for big money, but also loaned back. | Getty Images Photo: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images