Meanwhile, Championship managers continue to assess their options ahead of the January transfer window, which will provide a welcome opportunity for clubs to strengthen after an injury-hit start to the 2020/21 season. In the meantime, here's all the latest news and transfer gossip from the Championship.
1. Barnsley and Derby among favourites to land Balotelli
Barnsley have been named the bookies' favourites to sign free agent Mario Balotelli. Derby County and Galatasaray are among the other front-runners to sign the ex-AC Milan and Man City star. (Sky Bet) Photo: Emilio Andreoli
2. Boro target set to stay with Bournemouth
Middlesbrough's hope of signing defender Jack Simpson on loan in January look to have taken a blow, following Bournemouth boss Jason Tindall's insistence the 23-year-old will remain at the club as backup. (Echo) Photo: Pool
3. Cardiff & Derby wanted Austin
Both Cardiff City and Derby County are believed to have been keen on signing West Brom striker Charlie Austin in the last transfer window, but the player's wage demands scuppered the chances of a deal. (The Athletic) Photo: Michael Regan
4. Championship duo could miss out on Gallagher
Bristol City and Swansea City could see their attempts to sign Motherwell and Scotland defender Declan Gallagher thwarted, following news that Burnley, Sheffield United and West Brom are also interested. (Team Talk) Photo: Ian MacNicol