Southampton join race to sign striker Connor Wickham from Sunderland



Southampton are showing an interest in Sunderland striker Connor Wickham.

Leicester have also enquired about the 21-year-old but Ronald Koeman wants a target man to replace Rickie Lambert with talks stalling over a fee for Graziano Pelle of Feyenoord.



Wickham has 12 months left on his contract at Sunderland, meaning the club could look to offload him this summer if he doesn't sign fresh terms.

Hotshot: Wickham smashed home Sunderland's second goal at Manchester City in April

The Sunderland striker was pictured partying in Puerto Banus recently

Leicester are reportedly keen on a £6million deal for the Black Cats striker as Foxes boss Nigel Pearson tries to strengthen his attacking options after promotion from the Championship.

Wickham moved to the Stadium of Light from Ipswich for £8million in 2011 but struggled to make an impact in the north east.

Meanwhile, Sunderland are showing interest in Nigeria midfielder Michel Babatunde, 21, who plays for Ukrainian side Volyn Lutsk.

New Saints boss Ronald Koeman (centre) is keen to bring in a new striker