League One play-off finalists Sunderland are looking to beat the chasing pack to the signing of Ayr United striker Lawrence Shankland.

The youngster smashed in 34 goals in all competitions last season for the Scottish Championship side, and he is now being courted by a host of clubs south of the border who have been suitably impressed with his displays.

However, according to Alan Nixon, it is Sunderland who are leading the chase to sign Shankland, with manager Jack Ross keen on adding some more firepower to his ranks after seeing his Black Cats side come up short in their quest for promotion last term.

23-year-old Shankland has really found his feet in the last 12 months after spending much of his career prior to that flitting between different loan spells and failing to make an impact with Aberdeen in a four-year spell with the club between 2013 and 2017.

However, his stock has now risen thanks to his goals last season, and Sunderland could well see themselves with quite the bargain buy on their hands if they can land the young striker.

The Verdict

It's not surprise to see clubs going after Shankland given he has breached the 30 goal mark, and Sunderland would be the perfect landing spot for him you would assume.

A season in League One and time to get used to life in English football might be ideal, rather than jumping straight in at the deep end with a club in the Championship for example.

Shankland can clearly finish, and Sunderland will be hoping he can find his form if he does sign.