Blackburn Rovers will make a January move for Sunderland's in-form striker Ross Stewart if Ben Brereton Diaz is sold. That is according to the Sun, who also claim Jon Dahl Tomasson's side considered a late move for the Black Cats forward in the summer window.
Stewart has made a fine start to life in the Championship, registering five goals and three assists in just seven appearances. The 26-year-old is in the final year of his contract at the Stadium of Light, although Sunderland do hold an option to extend this by a further year.
Sporting director Kristjan Speakman has confirmed the club will hold a 'detailed conversation' with Stewart over a prospective new deal now the summer window has closed. Speakman added there is no need to 'panic' at this stage over the striker's future, insisting the focus must be on finding a 'solution' which is best for both the player and the club.
READ MORE: Sunderland to step up contract talks with Ross Stewart now transfer window has shut
However, news of Rovers' interest in a prospective mid-season move will likely heighten fears over Stewart's future. Brereton Diaz was a man in demand over the summer, with Everton, Fulham and Leeds all credited with an interest.
The Toffees are said to have had an offer worth up to £20 million turned down for the Chile international. Rovers triggered an automatic one-year extension in Brereton Diaz's deal in May, but the striker could either leave in a cut-price January move or wait until next summer to consider his options as a free agent.
READ NEXT
Tony Mowbray hoping to extend Riverside record with Sunderland on return to Middlesbrough
Motivated Sunderland squad impress Tony Mowbray with their drive and ambition
Middlesbrough handed double injury boost ahead of Sunderland clash
Kristjaan Speakman explains Sunderland's stance on free agents now the transfer window is shut
