Bristol Rovers agree transfer deal as 50-goal striker joins new club

Bristol Rovers are now able to make transfers following the summer transfer window opening.

The Gas haven’t brought any players in prior to the window opening, but now the registration period is here, business could be about to pick up. Rovers’ League One rivals have already done some business, and with up to five new signings touted by the first day of pre-season by Joey Barton, a flurry of players will hopefully arrive.

Former Bristol City defender James Wilson seems to be the first player who will pen-to-paper on a deal with Rovers. It was confirmed on Tuesday that the 34-year-old would be leaving Home Park, and now his destination is the Memorial Stadium, according to Bristol Live.

Wilson is due for a medical at Rovers training ground later this week according to the report, and have already agreed personal terms. He is said to be their number one defensive target, and his arrival will be welcomed, given James Connolly is the only recognised centre-back at the club.

Despite winning the League One title last year, playing 38 times for the Pilgrims, he has opted to remain in the third tier, rather than take his place in the Championship. Bristol Live add that it is likely that Wilson will be given the captaincy once his arrival is confirmed.

In other news, former Bristol Rovers striker Brett Pitman is on the move for a second consecutive summer. The 35-year-old left Rovers last summer for AFC Portchester, but has now joined Shaftesbury.

Pitman was one of the most prolific strikers in England last season getting 50 goals and 12 assists. His efforts though couldn’t lead Portchester to promotion, and now he has joined Shaftesbury, who play in the same division as his former team.

Another former Rovers player has also made a move across the non-league scene. Jake Gosling has moved on from Bristol Manor Farm after two seasons, and has signed with National League North newcomers Rushall Olympic. Manor Farm avoided relegation to the ninth tier, but the 12-time Gibraltar international moved on, and has now moved up two leagues.

“Jake is an unbelievably talented footballer,” said manager, Liam McDonald to Rushall Olympic’s official club website.

“What a signing this is as he will add so much to us.

“We need players like this for the level that we are going in to; he’s played in The Football League and on the international stage, so we are bringing in someone with real calibre.

“He’ll add creativity and goals and I am really excited with this signing.”