Sources: Sheffield Wednesday and Sunderland plot moves to sign Northampton star Koiki
Sheffield Wednesday and Sunderland are plotting moves to sign Northampton Town full-back Ali Koiki, Football Insider understands.
A number of clubs higher up the football pyramid have been keeping tabs on the 22-year-old following his impressive performances in League Two this season.
A recruitment source has told Football Insider that Wednesday, Sunderland and Preston North End are all tracking Koiki ahead of his contract expiring in the summer.
Northampton are keen to keep hold of Koiki but are bracing themselves for offers in this month's transfer window.
The defender has been virtually ever-present for the Cobblers this term, playing 29 games across all competitions.
Koiki joined the League Two club after leaving Bristol Rovers upon the expiry of his contract last summer.
He made just three starts in League One during his spell with the Gas last season.
The left-back joined Northampton in July 2021 after impressing during a trial period.
Kensington-born Koiki came through the ranks at Burnley but failed to make a senior appearance before departing.
The Englishman was reportedly offered a new Clarets contract in September 2020 but rebuffed the approach in order to pursue first-team football.
Sean Dyche's side secured a compensation fee from Bristol Rovers after the League Two side signed the youngster.
The defender could now return to League One with a move to high-flyers Sunderland or play-off chasing Sheffield Wednesday.
Mid-table Championship side Preston are also eyeing the left-back as they look to mount a play-off charge.