Sheffield Wednesday may have to move fast to secure the transfer of key target Ike Ugbo this summer as other clubs prepare to move in on their pursuit, The Star understands.

Striker Ike Ugbo was a key figure in Wednesday’s remarkable survival effort last time out, playing a huge part in the transformation of their forward line and contributing seven vital goals in his 19 outings in Owls colours after arriving on loan from Troyes in January.

Reports of an initial permanent transfer offer from Wednesday last week are believed to be accurate - but The Star understands the proposal was not deemed acceptable by Troyes, who are now awaiting a second Owls bid that would need to be much closer to their valuation of the player.

With time moving on towards the start of the EFL season it is understood that Wednesday’s interest in the Canada international is under increasing pressure from elsewhere, with Championship colleagues Stoke City and League One big-spenders Birmingham City said to be ready to launch their own efforts to take him on. Further interest from other clubs remains and the Owls will have to make an improved bid to get their man.

Ugbo, 25, is believed to be keen on the mooted Wednesday switch and the opportunity to continue working as part of the Danny Röhl project amid a continued flurry of transfer activity in the opening weeks of the transfer window. The German boss has spoken of his happiness at how the club have performed in the market so far this summer, with nine players having been brought to the club already. Vitally, he has said work is still to be done in key positions of which a goal-getting striker is one.

Further efforts in the transfer market continue at Hillsborough. Di’Shon Bernard remains a player Wednesday would like to re-sign as they look to bolster their numbers in defence, while midfield has become something of a priority.