Steven Fletcher was one of a whole host of players released by Sunderland including Wes Brown and Danny Graham. The £12million signing spent time on loan to Marseille in the final six months of his Sunderland contract and is now looking for a new club after failing to impress for the French outfit.
Plenty of interest
However, Fletcher’s goal scoring capabilities are attracting attention from far and wide. Celtic have been interested in the Scottish international for a number of transfer windows and may look to finally make their move for the Bosman player. But as well as the SPL side, Sheffield Wednesday and Aston Villa are also rumoured to be interested.
Newly-promoted Premier League outfit, Hull City have also shown interested and had a bid for the 28-year-old rejected some 18 months ago. Though sources in Greece suggest that AEK Athens may be the striker’s next destination. The Greek club, managed by Fletcher’s former boss Gus Poyet last season, are also in talks with the player.
Despite interest from a range of clubs, Fletcher’s wage demands may put his potential suitors off. The Scot was on a big money deal at Sunderland having arrived from Wolves for £12million.
Fletcher denies Celtic interest
SPL side Celtic are strong favourites to sign the striker, however. Fletcher said: “I haven’t had any contact with Celtic.”
He added, "I know everyone likes to think I have, but even in recent times when I have been linked with them there has never been any solid connection with me and them."
Fletcher was released by Sam Allardyce as the manager looks to free up space on the wage bill, using the summer transfer window as an opportunity to put his own stamp on the Sunderland squad.
There won’t be too many hard feelings between the player and club as the decision was best for both parties. He will be remembered of fondly on Wearside following his goal scoring exploits and goals against arch rivals Newcastle.