Bristol Rovers transfer business has picked up rapidly in the last week, and are showing they mean business with the calibre of signings they've brought in.
James Wilson was the first signing through the door, and was announced on Friday night, after much speculation about a move to the Memorial Stadium. The 34-year-old put pen-to-paper on a two-year deal with the Gas, and represents a change in transfer approach from Joey Barton who has favoured younger players in the centre-back position. Wilson is worth the change however, as his move to the Mem comes off the back of winning the League One title with Plymouth Argyle. He was offered the chance to play in the Championship with the Pilgrims, but opted to return to the city of Bristol, after starting his career at inter-city rivals Bristol City.
A second signing soon followed, and it was a familiar face to Gasheads with Luke Thomas rejoining. The 24-year-old had the chance to remain at Oakwell after being offered a new contract, but instead accepted a three-year deal at Rovers, which represents how much they wanted him to join him, that they offered him a lengthy contract. Thomas was part of the 2021/22 promotion-winning squad, and has come off a season in which he helped Barnsley reach the play-off final.
This week started with the arrival of Jevani Brown, who made the move from Exeter City after his contract with the Grecians expired. The 28-year-old got 12 goals and nine assists, and will add a 'different dimension' to Rovers' attack.
All three are confirmed signings, but there's been some speculation recently, like George Friend being on trial, whilst Marc Leonard from Brighton is said to be a target. Oludare Olufunwa, who was recently released from Liverpool is another that has been linked.
There's still a month to go, and more signings to come, but already we're looking at what the XI could be for the Gas' trip to Portsmouth on Saturday, August 5. What do you think of this potential XI?
1. GK: James Belshaw
First choice for sure, but will any new goalkeepers be coming this summer to challenge Belly? Photo: Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
2. RB: Luca Hoole
Hoole thrived in his natural position last season, and it’d be good to continue that by moulding him in to a solid right-back. Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images
3. RCB: James Wilson
James Wilson’s arrival showed Rovers mean business as he’s just come from playing nearly 40 times in a League One winning team. He might even get the captains armband! Photo: Tom Dulat/Getty Images
4. CB: James Connolly
A now or never pre-season for Connolly. More centre-backs will be searched for, but he’s capable of being a solid League One CB. Photo: Harry Trump/Getty Images