Bristol Rovers ‘transfer interest’ in Brighton man wanted by Luton Town, PNE, Swansea City & Northampton

Bristol Rovers are still reportedly keen on signing Brighton midfielder Marc Leonard, according to social media reports.

Leonard was linked with a move to the Memorial Stadium in January but remained on loan at Northampton Town. The 21-year-old had joined the Cobblers on a season-long loan deal, but their manager Jon Brady dismissed the speculation.

He remained at Sixfields for the entirety of the 2023/23 campaign, and helped Northampton get promoted. He played 48 matches in total, appearing in 45 of Northampton’s matches, getting a goal and an assist. He started in 37 league matches, and played mainly as a defensive midfielder.

Sunday Mirror Sports journalist Darren Witcoop has reignited the rumours linking Bristol Rovers and Leonard. He claims Northampton want to ‘re-sign’ Leonard on loan but face competition from Rovers and other League One clubs. Brighton’s stance is also said to be in favour of a Championship move for Leonard this time around, which would see him make a two-league jump.

Witcoop said: “Northampton want to re-sign Marc Leonard on loan from Brighton but face competition with Bristol Rovers among the L1 clubs showing interest.

“Brighton currently keen for the midfielder to play in Championship to continue his education.”

Back in January, Daily Express reporter Charlie Parker-Turner put Morecambe and Forest Green Rovers down as clubs interested, as well as Swansea City and Preston. Swansea are without a manager but are close to appointing Michael Duff, but it is unsure whether he still remains on their list of targets. Preston meanwhile open up their Championship campaign against Bristol City, and could still hold an interest.

Scotland Under-21 international Leonard was due to be out of contract this summer but the Seagulls have triggered an option in his contract. In April, the Daily Record claimed Polish side Legia Warsaw and recently promoted Luton Town had expressed an interest in signing him.