Middlesbrough will not be pursuing a deal for Sunderland striker Ross Stewart this summer, as per Teesside Live.
Stewart, 26, played just 13 games for Sunderland in the Championship last season. The Scottish striker scored ten and assisted a further three and despite a lack of appearances he was one of the most prolific goalscorers in the division last time out.
Stewart has proved a huge hit since joining Sunderland, but last season two major injuries in the same campaign saw him miss the vast majority of action.
Sunderland have been trying to tie Stewart down to a contract for a while now with the striker’s current deal expiring next summer.
Meanwhile, there has been plenty interest in the forward man, but despite contrary reports, the latest update has claimed Boro will not be targeting Stewart and will instead look at other striking options.
A boost for Sunderland
The 26-year-old has a lot to prove this coming season. He is being labeled injury prone by some and he has to show the ability to perform for a full season at this level.
Sunderland fans are becoming impatient with the whole contract saga, but given his injury issues it seems unlikely any side will take a risk on Stewart this summer.
Tony Mowbray will be hoping Stewart is fit and firing upon his return to action, but the Black Cats will have to do without for the first few games with the season opener coming too soon for Stewart’s recovery.
It’ll be interesting to see who Michael Carrick turns his attention to this window with the former Manchester United man still hoping to add to his forward ranks.
