Daily Echo:

Saints are hopeful that Sam Gallagher will sign a new contract with the club and report for pre-season ready to fight for a first team place.

The rangy 21-year-old striker spent last season on loan at Blackburn, and impressed as he managed 12 goals in 42 matches despite Rovers struggling and ultimately being relegated from the Championship.

Gallagher’s performances alerted the attentions of a number of clubs with the likes of Aston Villa and Middlesbrough considering trying to prise him away from Saints.

However, it is believed that the club have been in negotiations with Gallagher’s agent over a new contract, with the England under-20 international’s current deal due to expire next year.

Gallagher was keen to try and ensure first team football rather than a season on the sidelines with Saints, but has been assured he will be given the chance to get Premier League game time if he remains at St Mary’s and performs well.

Gallagher would add an extra option for Mauricio Pellegrino, given his size and aerial presence.

Manolo Gabbiadini and Charlie Austin have many qualities, but neither are out and out target men, and nor is Shane Long.

Jay Rodriguez has tried to play that role in the past, but is expected to move away from Saints this summer, with West Brom favourites for his signature.

Gallagher’s return to the fold would, therefore, mean Pellegrino would likely end up with four frontline striking options for the new season, which the club would be comfortable with, meaning they would not have to recruit again in that position.

For Gallagher, signing a new contract at Saints would also appear a fairly low risk strategy.

Given his age and reputation, even if he found himself struggling for time on the pitch next season he would still be sat on a good contract and able to try and get a move further down the line.

Gallagher came through the academy at Plymouth before moving to Saints in 2012, and had a big impact on the team under Mauricio Pochettino after making his debut in November 2013, playing 18 times before the end of the 2013/14 season.

However, several unfortunate setbacks meant Gallagher was never able to capitalise on that fast start, and he hasn’t played for the Saints first team since – though he did score the winner in the under-21 Premier League Cup final - instead having loan spells at MK Dons and Blackburn.