Middlesbrough and Birmingham City are continuing to track Barry Bannan ahead of the 2018/19 campaign.

According to the Sheffield Star, Sheffield Wednesday are facing a fight to keep hold of some of their stars this summer, including Bannan, who is attracting interest from across the Sky Bet Championship.

Wednesday are looking to trim their wage bill this summer, with Bannan seemingly on the radar of Boro and Birmingham, who are continuing to track the Scottish midfielder.

Bannan has been at Hillsborough since the summer of 2015 and has made 118 appearances for the Owls during that three-year spell.

The 28-year-old played a crucial role in helping Wednesday into the top-six in 2016 and 2017, as Carlos Carvalhal’s side challenged for a long awaited Premier League return.

Like many of Sheffield Wednesday’s squad, Bannan found his opportunities last season limited due to injury, as the Owls eventually struggled to 15th under Jos Luhukay.

Bannan featured on 31 occasions across all competitions, scoring a goal in the Carabao Cup and adding three assists in the Championship.

It remains to be seen if Wednesday entertain the initial interest that Boro and Birmingham are showing in Bannan.

The Verdict    

Bannan is an exceptionally talented midfielder, who from a deep position, proves to be a real creative cog at Hillsborough.

With Wednesday looking to trim their wage bill, interest in the midfielder has to be expected.

However, Wednesday will expect to be competing with both Middlesbrough and Birmingham next season and will surely be aware that they would be strengthening a rival, should they negotiate any deal.

Should Boro or Birmingham pursue their interest in Bannan? Let us know your thoughts!