The top free agents Bristol Rovers could target this week - including ex-Newcastle gem and 13-goal Salford ace
Bristol Rovers could delve into the free agent market before their opener with Harrogate Town
Returning Bristol Rovers boss Darrell Clarke is currently in the process of trying to assemble a team that he feels can win promotion from League Two at the first time of asking after last season’s relegation.
The Gas have been named among the favourites for promotion heading into the new season and are expected to compete with the likes of MK Dons, Salford City and Chesterfield for the automatic promotion spots next term.
Their campaign begins with a clash with Harrogate Town at the Memorial Stadium in what promises to be an emotional homecoming for Clarke in his first competitive match back. They then travel to Fleetwood Town in their next match before facing Chesterfield on the road just after.
Recruitment will be paramount if Clarke is to add to his exceptional CV of winning promotions. With that in mind, here is a look at some free agents who remain available, focusing specifically on players taking part in the PFA’s free agent pre-season training initiative.
Free agent defensive options Bristol Rovers could target
Last summer, Newcastle United fans waved goodbye to a cult hero that had played 213 games when Paul Dummett departed on a free transfer after a 24-year association with the North East club.
Dummett had been catalyst in the 2016/17 Championship title-winning team, was a key player in the club’s Premier League relegation battles and even played a small part in helping the team achieve Champions League qualification under Eddie Howe in 2022/23. However, his first season away from St. James’ Park proved difficult, as he struggled for fitness with Wigan Athletic and Carlisle United.
Dummett has been keeping himself match-sharp at the PFA’s free agent pre-season training initiatives and at 33 should still have the guile and know-how to thrive at League Two level while offering versatility in the left-back and centre-back position as well as tons of experience.
Meanwhile, former German Under-20 international Patrick Bauer, last of Preston, is another experienced option that could add stability to the defence when fully fit.
Free agent midfield and attacking options Bristol Rovers could target
Midfielder Jake Forster-Caskey is on the lookout for a new club following the expiration of his contract with League One side Stevenage. He won promotion from this division as recently as 2023 and also offers experience from previous spells with Brighton and Charlton.
Meanwhile, in attack Hakeeb Adelakun, who netted 13 times for Salford City last term is also a potential player to target in attack. He’s still only 29 and also enjoyed a very productive loan spell with Doncaster Rovers a year before that which saw him net nine goals in 19 appearances.
Former Manchester City and Sheffield United frontman Ched Evans is also on the hunt for a new club. The ex-Wales international scored 16 times in 96 appearances for Preston North End and is a proven finisher at Football League level.