The January transfer window is quickly approaching and Bristol City were linked with a new target on Friday.

According to West London Sport, Lee Johnson is keen to bring Hearts striker Uche Ikpeazu to Ashton Gate.

Queens Park Rangers and Derby County are also thought to be interested in bringing the 24-year-old in during the January transfer window with a second-tier bidding war looking more and more likely.

Ikpeazu impressed for the Jam Tarts last season, scoring ten times as he helped Craig Levein's side to the Scottish Cup final where they were eventually beaten by Celtic - who are also thought to be interested.

He made the move North of the border from Cambridge United in the summer of 2018 on a free transfer and has already scored two goals and assisted two more in six games this season.

But would he make a good signing for the Robins?

Here are TWO pros and TWO cons to the deal...

Depth

With Benik Afobe set to be sidelined until the end of the season, Bristol City definitely need the added depth in attack.

Famara Diedhiou has proved his worth in the division and Andi Weimann continues to impress, but with Johnson clearly keen to play two in attack, numbers will be needed.

Ikpeazu is an out-and-out marksman, already notching two in six games this season, and that is what the Robins need.

A point to prove

Ikpeazu is no stranger to English football. He has proven he can score goals in League One and League Two with Cambridge and Crewe in the past.

But having yet to be given the chance in the second tier, he will be desperate to prove himself and undoubtedly arrive with the bit between his teeth.

Value

 

Ikpeazu's contract is not set to run out until the summer of 2022, putting Hearts in the driving seat with regards any negotiations.

They do not need to sell so it is likey that Bristol City will need to pay a seven-figure sum to bring him to Ashton Gate, and it is safe to say his experience probably does not warrant that.

Having spent a lot of money during the summer, they will most likely need to be shrewd in January, and it is deal that may lack value.

Stunted development

Since Benik Afobe picked up his knock, one player who has benefited is youngster Antoine Semenyo.

He is clearly a versatile attacker with a lot of talent and has been filling in valiantly in the striker's absence.

Bristol City therefore need to be careful. Is Ikpeazu really worth bringing in? Seeing as it will most likely severely limit the chances given to their own youth producsts like Semenyo.

Is he good enough to do that? I am not sure.

[freshpress-poll ]