Bristol Rovers are set to complete the signing of Connor Taylor from Stoke City, according to reports.
Bristol Post report that a bid of £300,000 has been accepted by the Potters, and his return to the Memorial Stadium should be confirmed shortly Stoke have signed Luke McNally on loan from Burnley, and now that is finalised, Taylor’s move surely be confirmed very soon.
Should all go to plan, Taylor will have at least two-three days training under his belt with some familiar teammates, as well as some new faces. Centre-back has been area of concern for Rovers, and so far they’ve signed Tristan Crama from Brentford and James Wilson from 2023/24 League One winners Plymouth Argyle.
A new goalkeeper looks set to make his competitive debut as well with Brentford lending Rovers the England Under-20’s goalkeeper Matt Cox. He’s not played many competitive games, but was back-up keeper to David Raya last season, and now he’s getting his opportunity at Rovers.
We’ve also seen Luke Thomas return to the club, having left play-off finalists Barnsley, for a three-year deal at the club he was once on loan at. The length of his deal shows that he’ll be staying around hopefully for a strong promotion push this year. George Friend and Matt Hall have also joined, but Friend is sidelined and Hall is expected to be third choice for the time being.
Here’s what we think the starting XI could look like against Portsmouth at Fratton Park on Saturday, which includes a formation change from what we’ve seen in pre-season.
5. CM: Sam Finley
He’s looked good in pre-season and with a lack of central midfield options, he’s certainly going to start. Photo: Naomi Baker
6. CM: Grant Ward
Rovers are so glad he’s re-signed because he offers solidity in midfield. Grant and Rossiter still aren’t fit so there’s a real need for a defensive midfield option. | Getty Images Photo: Alex Burstow/Getty Images
7. LW: Luke Thomas
Looked bright in pre-season and looks to have his confidence back. He had a tough injury last year but seems to be in good shape and raring to go. | Getty Images Photo: Michael Regan/Getty Image
8. CAM: Aaron Collins
We’re hoping for more of the same but also bigger things from Collins this season. His new teammates should be taking him to another level. | Michael Steele/Getty Images Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images