Bristol City's transfer recruitment team and Nigel Pearson have a task on their hands this summer, in what is a key period for the football club.
Pearson enters the final year of his three-year contract and for the time being, he isn't interested in thrashing out new terms and instead wants to focus on completing the campaign. The Robins are just below mid-table and are on course to at least beat their lowly finishes of 17th and 18th, previously recorded under the former Leicester City boss.
Once the season concludes on May 7, technical director Brian Tinnion says that business will begin, with the potential for four new signings in the summer. City have money to spend from Antoine Semenyo's sale to AFC Bournemouth, and there is also the possibility that they will be tested for Alex Scott, who is no longer the clubs best kept secret.
Several Premier League clubs are said to be interested in the 'Guernsey Grealish' but as of yet, it is only speculation and there haven't been any concrete offers from anyone. Some fans are consigned to losing Scott, and just want to enjoy what could be the last few matches of his career. His departure isn't for certain and the club do want to hold talks about extending his contract, which would really keep the foundations in place for a strong promotion push.
This summer also sees several players out-of-contract, and at the moment there are some playing for their future. Several new contracts have been agreed, but not everyone will remain. BristolWorld takes a look at the players that could likely leave Ashton Gate this summer alongside a couple of maybes and the stars that definitely won’t be going anywhere.
13. Joe Williams - likely to stay
Suffered a season-ending injury recently, which is a blow as he was building his robustness. Out of contract in the summer of 2024, and Pearson may want to see him prove his fitness. | Getty Images Photo: Dan Istitene/Getty Images
14. Kal Naismith - to stay
The first of three years at City has gone alright for Naismith, who has played in various roles since his move from Luton. Naismith’s absence has been felt, both in midfield and in defence. He’s a big influence around the changing room, and a departure is extremely unlikely. | Getty Images Photo: Alex Burstow/Getty Images
15. Matty James - certain to stay
One of Nigel Pearson’s trusted lieutenant’s and in the last month an unsung hero. Out of contract in the summer of 2024 so an interesting season ahead. | Getty Images Photo: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
16. Andy King - could leave (as a player)
King’s had a better season this year after a hamstring injuries impacted his first season. He’s out of contract in the summer, and whilst he’s still undecided, this could perhaps be his final season as a player. He’s a coach, and seems to be enjoying that so he could leave as a player, but remain as a coach. | Getty Images Photo: Dan Mullan/Getty Images