Bristol City have reportedly joined the race to sign Hearts striker Uche Ikpeazu, according to West London Sport.

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.

With summer recruit Benik Afobe set to miss the rest of the season, Lee Johnson is set to look to strengthen his front-line in January, with Famara Diedhiou currently his only out-and-out experienced forward.

Even with that set-back however it has been an impressive start to the season for the Robins, sat in sixth place with 11 matches played, unbeaten since the opening day of the season.

The verdict

I think price will be crucial in determining whether or not this is a good signing for Bristol City.

Whilst Ikpeazu has impressed in the Scottish Premiership, that is not always a guarantee of being able to cut it in the Championship.

Having never played above League One level in England, it is certainly a risk, but if they can negotiate a decent fee then it could work well for them.