Championship news: Swansea City pair wanted, Preston keen on attacker and Hull City face battle

Bristol City have been busy so far this summer as they look to push for the top six next season. Nigel Pearson’s side finished 14th in the Championship table last term.

They have so far signed defensive pair Ross McCrorie and Rob Dickie from Aberdeen and QPR respectively. Here is a look at some transfer news and rumours from around the division...

Southampton eye additions

Southampton will target Swansea City duo Matt Grimes and Jay Fulton once Russell Martin’s long-awaited appointment is finalised, as per a report by The Sun. The Saints will be eyeing an immediate return to the Premier League following their relegation in the past campaign. Martin has spent the past two years with the Swans, having previously been at MK Dons, but is now poised for a new challenge in Hampshire.

Preston North End targeting Liverpool youngster

Preston North End are reportedly keen on landing Liverpool attacker Bobby Clarke on loan, according to Football League World. The 18-year-old, who is an England youth international, has been on the books at Anfield since 2021 after joining from Newcastle United. He has since made two first-team appearances under Jurgen Klopp but could now head out on loan to one of Bristol City’s league rivals to get some experience under his belt.

Middlesbrough and Hull City in transfer battle

Middlesbrough are said to have joined Hull City in the race to land Newcastle United goalkeeper Karl Darlow, according to reporter Alan Nixon on Patreon. The 32-year-old spent the second-half of last season on with the Tigers after being given the green light to head out the exit door on a temporary basis to get some game time. He was with the Tigers and they want to sign him permanently now under former Bristol City defender Liam Rosenior but face competition.