Championship side Bristol City has reportedly identified Exeter City’s free-scoring forward, Jayden Wareham, as a key summer transfer target, as they seek to bolster their frontline in preparation for the upcoming season.

This latest development comes hot on the heels of their recent, unsuccessful attempts to secure Leyton Orient’s prolific goalscorer, Dom Ballard, with the clubs still at an impasse over the 21-year-old’s valuation.

The Grecians will undoubtedly have been bracing themselves for significant interest in their prolific centre forward, whose talismanic performances in Devon last term ultimately weren’t enough to prevent their relegation to League Two.

In what promises to be a summer of significant change at Ashton Gate, the 23-year-old is viewed as an attainable option for new boss Michael Skubala, potentially answering the Robins’ urgent call for an out-and-out number nine to lead their attack.

Bristol City Shifts Focus As Ballard Chase Stalls

An anxious summer undoubtedly looms at Brisbane Road following Dom Ballard’s golden boot-winning season, where his remarkable 23 goals in League One, achieved in fewer appearances than his closest rivals, highlighted his exceptional talent.

After two unsuccessful bids from Bristol City for the former Southampton youth, Alan Nixon is now reporting that the Robins are prepared to bid for Wareham, who finished joint second to Ballard in the third-tier scoring charts last campaign.

Following a mid-table finish last season, the West Country side has already showcased its ambition this summer, strengthening in various positions by bringing in goalkeeper Sam Tickle, seasoned Championship midfielder Jed Wallace, and versatile attacking player Sam Greenwood.

The next priority is to provide a remedy for the absence of a target man, an issue that haunted them at crucial points last season, especially considering Scott Twine topped their scoring charts with just 11 goals, four of which came from his trademark set pieces.

With a manager now at the helm who has seemingly forgotten how to lose following his title-winning exploits with Lincoln City, the club hierarchy is preparing to back him financially as the Robins seek to challenge for a top-six spot once again next season.

Exeter City Striker To Make The Step Up

Jayden Wareham received lavish praise during his breakout EFL season last year, with his former manager, Gary Caldwell, memorably describing him as “unplayable” and “one of the best number nines he’s worked with” after consistently impressive performances at St James Park.

After relegation was confirmed on the final day, it was always unlikely that pre-season would pass by without bids coming in for the former Reading man. Wareham showcased his full repertoire of skills last season, going on to score 22 times in all competitions, with his talent more than exceeding the prospect of a season in League Two. In fact, his ability to spearhead the attack and bring his teammates higher up the pitch are attributes that would stand him in good stead for a step up to the Championship.

Matt Taylor recently welcomed striker Josh Gordon to the fold following his release by Walsall, a move that perhaps hints the club was bracing itself for the potential departure of their talisman.

Leyton Orient Left To Sweat On Ballard Future

Orient fans would likely be staring at the reality of a League Two season had it not been for Ballard’s 23 league goals last season, as they narrowly survived on the final day by a mere three points in the standings. While any potential exit would undoubtedly leave a significant void in the O’s squad, the club has clearly prepared for such bids, having recently secured him with a new contract that extends until 2028, adding scope for a weightier fee.

According to a recent Football League World exclusive, the East London club is holding out for at least £5 million for their prized asset, a fee Bristol City, at least, are currently reluctant to meet. It’s shaping up to be a summer of significant comings and goings at the BetWright Stadium, with forward Sonny Perkins already joining Wigan Athletic for an undisclosed fee, suggesting the Orient frontline could look very different from the one that almost single-handedly preserved their third-tier status last term.

Whatever direction Bristol City’s pursuit of Ballard takes next, it’s unlikely we’ve heard the last of the 21-year-old regarding a summer switch. One thing remains clear: Bristol City looks set to offer a League One striker the platform to climb the pyramid after strong showings at the top of the pitch.