Sheffield Wednesday striker Gary Hooper has recently seen a move to Iran fall through, which could potentially lead to Bristol City reigniting their interest.

The experienced marksman was made a free agent in the summer after his contract with Sheffield Wednesday expired in the summer but has been unable to find a new club.

He was on the verge of signing for Iranian side Esteghlal, travelling to Istanbul last week for contract talks, but an agreement was not reached and it now seems like the move is off.

The Bristol Post had reported earlier in the month that Lee Johnson and the Robins were contemplating a move for the 31-year-old and it is now possible that they will reopen negotiations.

Depth issues

The promotion hopefuls have been left short in attack after summer-signing Benik Afobe suffered a season ending injury just weeks after completing a deadline day deal.

Famara Diedhiou and Andreas Weimann remain the only senior forwards available to Johnson, so a move for Hooper, who netted 31 goals in 89 games, might make sense.

An injury to either forward now could be hugely damaging to their promotion ambitions and is something that they should look to avoid.

Ready made

He may have struggled in recent months, but Hooper remains a ready-made Championship striker.

He scored in every third game for the Owls which, although not great, is far from disastrous as well and he will surely arrive at Ashton Gate with a real point to prove to his former employers.

Cheap

Bristol City spent a lot of money in the summer, especially on the likes of Han-Noah Massengo and Tomas Kalas, so any where they can save should be looked at.

With Financial Fair Play rules set to be strictly enforced this season, any points deduction could prove fatal, so I think it makes perfect sense to bring in a free agent whenever you can.

His large wages may prove to be an issue further down the line but I would back the Robins to negotiate a smart deal in that respect.

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