Sunderland hit front in pursuit of Portsmouth target

By Mark McMahon

Published 13th Jun 2019, 17:00 BST

Updated 13th Jun 2019, 19:25 BST

Sunderland have stolen a march on Pompey in the pursuit of Lawrence Shankland.

The Black Cats have tabled a contract for the prolific marksman as he becomes a free agent, according to reports.

Lawrence Shankland is on Pompey's striking hit-list Picture: Steve Welsh/Getty Images.

placeholder image — Lawrence Shankland is on Pompey's striking hit-list Picture: Steve Welsh/Getty Images.

Hearts are also the latest to show their interest in the Ayr striker, say the Scottish Sun.

Shankland is on the Blues’ striking hit-list this summer after smashing in 34 goals last term.

Nottingham Forest, Swansea and Hull are among the other clubs said to be keeping tabs on the 23-year-old

Sunderland Portsmouth Lawrence Shankland Pompey Black Cats Swansea Hull