Aberdeen striker Sam Cosgrove is believed to be a target for Stoke City as Michael O'Neill looks to add to his squad in the New Year.

The 22-year-old has been outstanding for the Dons this season, weighing in with 16 goals across all competitions in what has been a productive campaign so far.

And, the Scottish Sun claim that form has caught the eye of the Potters, with the report stating they are lining up a bid in January.

Even though Derek McInnes' men will not want to lose such an influential player mid-season, Stoke will hope they can do a deal for the target man who it has previously been suggested will cost £2m.

Here we look at THREE reasons why Cosgrove would be the ideal first arrival at the bet365 Stadium under O'Neill...

The strikers are struggling for goals

Whilst Stoke scored four in the new boss' first game, Lee Gregory was the only striker to score and that came from the penalty spot.

The forward players scoring goals has been a major problem all season, with Sam Vokes, Tyrese Campbell, Scott Hogan and Gregory all struggling this season.

So, Cosgrove could be the one to solve that issue and contribute regularly.

He should suit O'Neill's style of play

It would be unfair to say that O'Neill is a long ball manager but he does like a physical presence to lead the line.

He demands that his striker can hold the ball up, bring others into play and works hard - qualities that Cosgrove boasts, meaning he could be the perfect focal point for this new-look XI.

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He can be a long-term answer

At 22, the Potters would be bringing in a player that can star for the club for the next decade or so.

As they prepare for another season outside the top-flight, the finances will be tight and O'Neill will be tasked with changing the profile of the squad and targeting younger players will no doubt be the approach.