Sammie Szmodics is a wanted man this summer, with a move out of League Two almost certainly on the cards with the likes of Derby, Hull and Bristol City linked, as per the Bristol Post.

He’s already turned down one move and is being coveted by a number of clubs.

We turn to Gary Hutchinson to find out more about the player in our latest FLW Six Pointer....

Who is Sammie Szmodics?

“He’s a 23-year-old attacking midfielder who plays for Colchester United.

“He’s out of contract this summer, but his club will be due a fee as he’s under the age of 24.

“I saw the last game of the season in which Szmodics went over to the travelling Colchester supporters, seemingly to say goodbye. He looks like he’s on the move.”

What’s his background?

“He’s been with the U’s since the age of seven, a whopping 16 years. He’s become part of the furniture there, despite his tender age.

“He’s only had one loan spell away from the club, a short stint at National league side Braintree Town back in 2015/16, where he bagged twice in three matches.

“He’s firmly established himself as a key player for John McGreal’s side, scoring 14 times last season. His career total is 38 goals from 162 outings.”

What are his strengths?

“Firstly, he is versatile. His best position is the classic ‘attacking central midfielder’, although in the modern game that’s almost a second striker role. Think Wayne Rooney or Paul Gascoigne, dropping back off a main striker but also able to come from deep.

“He can play as a central striker and he’s comfortable on the flanks as well. He’s even been known to drop deep in midfield, offering a real range of options.

“He’s good on the ball, can create goals as well as score them and offers a real energy and direct approach from the centre of the park.

“He’s outgrown Colchester this season and is surely set for Championship football.”

Who is in the hunt for him?

“A few clubs have been linked with him. One of the first to make a move was Peterborough United, but he’s not interested in that. They signed teammate Frankie Kent, but Szmodics turned a move down flat.

“That’s left three Championship clubs in the hunt for him. Hull City were mentioned most recently, but Bristol City and Derby County have also been linked with him.”

Which move would suit him best?

“Derby are perhaps the biggest club in the hunt, but would a move there bring first team football? There is a lot up in the air at Pride Park right now and, if he wants a move wrapped up soon, it might be wise to steer clear.

“A new manager might not fancy him and the move could turn sour.

“Bristol City might be a good fit. Mo Eisa struggled after stepping up, but Szmodics is different, he’s got many more games behind him. He would suit their style of play and if he gets a prolonged chance, he’s going to develop.

“Hull wouldn’t be a bad move either. They’ve got the new manager and having seen Jarrod Bowen’s progress, Szmodics can be guaranteed if he does well, he’ll get lots of regular football.”

Could he step up?

“Yes, absolutely.

“He’s young and ambitious, but he’s a class act already. Someone will take a punt and reap significant rewards.”