League One outfit ‘identify’ Bristol City striker as main target as Millwall ‘eye’ swoop for Crystal Palace forward

Bristol City’s positive return to Championship action faltered as the weekend as they were beaten 2-1 by Stoke City on home soil. Despite taking the lead through Nahki Wells, the Potters claimed a comeback victory thanks to goals from Liam Delap and Jacob Brown.

The Robins looked to have potentially turned around their disappointing form with a convincing win over Rotherham United last time out, however the weekend’s defeat has now left them 18th in the Championship - three points from the relegation zone. Nigel Pearson’s fixture list isn’t looking much easier either as they host West Brom on Boxing Day, with the Baggies looking to bounce back from their first defeat in six matches. City’s year will then end with a trip to Millwall as they look to force their way back into the play-off spots.

Ahead of an action-packed week of festive football, we take a look at today’s transfer headlines.

League One outfit ‘target’ Bristol City striker

Cheltenham Town will look to sign Bristol City’s Sam Bell on loan next month after labelling him as one of their high priority targets, according to Bristol Live. The 20-year-old has impressed in the Robins’ U21 squad this season, scoring 13 goals in 13 matches, but has only managed three appearances with the senior squad.

City’s technical director, Brian Tinnion, has already claimed that the club have received five loan enquiries over Bell’s availability and Cheltenham will now look to join the race for his signature after their manager scouted the forward in an U21 match recently. Bell has plenty of competition for a place in the Robins’ starting line-up and so could look to pick up some experience elsewhere in the second half of the campaign. The City academy product has already enjoyed three loan spells away from Ashton Gate with Clevedon Town, Yate Town and Grimsby Town.

Millwall ‘eye’ Crystal Palace forward

Millwall have joined the race to sign Crystal Palace’s Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, according to journalist Alan Nixon. The 20-year-old is currently on loan with Charlton Athletic and has scored five goals in 18 appearances.

Despite his success this season, Palace could look to send Rak-Sakyi on a fresh loan deal in January as the Addicks currently sit 18th in League One. Patrick Vieira’s side could look to send him to a side enjoying a more positive campaign where he is more likely to thrive.

While Millwall could be an ideal destination for Rak-Sakyi as they bid for promotion, they will also face competition from Hull City, Ipswich Town and Sheffield Wednesday. The Lions may be the most appealing of the four for the attacker, however Gary Rowett’s side will need to be able to guarantee him regular first team football at The Den. Rak-Sakyi would be competing with the likes of Mason Bennett, Zian Flemming and Benik Afobe for a place in the team.