Sheffield Wednesday now face a huge challenge to sign one of their main targets this summer.
Sheffield Wednesday already look to be getting their summer transfer business underway and have been linked with a number of players to bolster their squad.
The Owls are already in discussions with a number of their out-of-contract stars, while Barry Bannan and Liam Palmer have already put pen to paper on fresh deals.
Their departing players have left a big hole in the attack though, with Ashley Fletcher, Lee Gregory and Ike Ugbo all making way this summer.
Wednesday are desperate to add some goals to their ranks in the next few months and are already looking back to Ugbo to provide that.
The Canadian netted seven goals after moving to Hillsborough on loan but has since returned to Troyes.
Sheffield Wednesday ‘face fierce competition’ for Ike Ugbo
It was recently reported that Wednesday had already initiated contact with the French club over a second deal for Ugbo, however it now looks like they could face huge competition for his signature.
The Star journalist Alex Miller wrote on X: “Understand Owls face fierce competition for Ike Ugbo. Previously reported that clubs in England and abroad are interested, now told MLS clubs are especially keen. Word is he won’t come cheap despite Troyes relegation.”
Ugbo is set to participate in this month’s Copa America tournament in Florida, which could prove to be an even bigger issue for the Owls.
The striker is unlikely to go anywhere until the tournament is over, which already means waiting until the end of July to be given the possibility of signing him.
However, a good tournament for Ugbo and Canada could boost interest and increase his price tag even more.
The Owls look set to be priced out of the move
It’s unclear how much Troyes are currently demanding for him, but the potential of a bidding war would quickly put the signing out of reach for Danny Rohl‘s side.
Wednesday’s only advantage would be their relationship with Ugbo, who seemed to really enjoy himself working under the German coach at Hillsborough.
However, there could well be clubs further up the Championship table interested in snapping him up and could provide him a route into the top flight.
While the ‘fantastic‘ 25-year-old played a key role in the Owls’ survival, he certainly wouldn’t be worth the price that could end up being asked of him.
Wednesday don’t want to wait around for almost two months and then be expected to pay millions for him.
The club need to make a decision on their pursuit and move onto other targets.