Scottish Premiership side Rangers are among a number of clubs chasing Ross Stewart's signature this summer, according to the latest reports. Sunderland are set to offer their top scorer a new deal with Kristjaan Speakman confirming they were in talks with the Scot now the season has come to a close.
The Europa League finalists are believed to be interested in Stewart after a stellar season in League One, but the likes of Middlesbrough, QPR and Sheffield United are also keeping a close eye on the developments at the Stadium of Light. Reports claims the Black Cats could make Stewart the highest paid player at the club.
Giovanni van Bronckhorst is believed to be a fan of the striker, with the Dutchman planning a rebuild at Ibrox this summer. Alex Neil is understandably keen to keep Stewart at the club.
READ MORE: Sunderland to hold contract talks with Ross Stewart over the summer, Kristjaan Speakman confirms
Speaking about Stewart's future at the club, Speakman said: "Look, there are several who would be in that batch of players that we think have got contracts, but that we want to protect the club and create the right structure. Ross has had an incredible season so for us, we're always trying to protect players like that who have performed so well and naturally, you want to try and reward players.
"It gives inspiration to other people as well [to perform] and you want to keep that cycle going. You want that culture at the club."