Not so positive outlook for Doncaster Rovers on Josh Sims' potential future at the club

Rovers are set to open formal talks with Southampton over the future of the 23-year-old - whose loan runs until next month - after his impressive spell at the Keepmoat.

But early discussions between the clubs have suggested his performances have attracted the attention of a cluster of clubs, mainly in the Championship but also in the Premier League.

The winger will see his contract expire at Southampton in the summer, and the Saints are understood to be keen to cash in on the interest which has grown during his loan.

Rovers are very keen to extend Sims’ stay after his run of three goals and six assists in 12 appearances for the club.

But the current feeling inside the club is that the competition for his services from higher divisions will prove too strong.

The situation may have been complicated by an injury suffered by Sims during Rovers' win over Swindon Town earlier this week.

He pulled up with a hamstring injury when chasing down a loose ball and Rovers are awaiting the full diagnosis, but he may already have played his final game for the club.

Alternative options are currently being explored by the recruitment team as Rovers look to potentially replace a player that has made a considerable impact since his arrival in mid-October, with three goals and seven assists in 14 matches.

A departure for Sims could be mitigated by the return to action of loanee Rayhaan Tulloch, who is set to rejoin Rovers for training in the next few weeks.

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