AFC Wimbledon manager Mark Robinson has admitted his side could face a battle to hold on to Derby County target Joe Pigott this summer, South London Press report.
The 27-year-old striker notched 22 goals in all competitions this season.
Pigott’s excellent form for AFC Wimbledon has attracted plenty of interest, with a clutch of Championship clubs reportedly eyeing him in a bargain deal this summer.
TEAMtalk claim Derby, Bristol City, Huddersfield Town and Birmingham City are keen.
South London Press, meanwhile, claimed Wycombe Wanderers pushed hardest for his signature in January while Charlton Athletic were also in the frame for him.
Pigott’s contract expires next month and while the Dons have offered him a new deal, Robinson admits he could have his head turned should a Championship offer arrive.
“We’ve made an offer to Joe and I am confident he’s been impressed with what we want to build. If it’s a case of Joe continuing to play League One football then I believe he will stay. There’s a big part of him that wants to stay and take us forward as a football club. But if offers come in from Championship clubs it understandably may be a different thought process for him,” Robinson explained.
Derby must look at strengthening their striker options this summer.
The Rams were the lowest scorers in the Championship this past season, and their struggles in-front of goal nearly cost them as they survived on the final day of the campaign.
Colin Kazim-Richards turns 35 in August, Lee Gregory has returned to Stoke City following his loan spell at Pride Park while Martyn Waghorn’s contact expires next month.
Manager Wayne Rooney will be desperate to bring in quality upfront, but the uncertainty surrounding the EFL charge and potential new ownership must get sorted first.
Also see: Report: Derby boss Rooney may look to sign Champions League winning free agent
Also see: Report: Boro now leading contenders ahead of Derby for Luton’s James Collins