Ex-Bristol Rovers defender wanted in four-team transfer race after rejecting contract

Former Bristol Rovers defender Ali Koiki is a man in demand after reportedly rejecting a new contract at Northampton Town.

Koiki was at Bristol Rovers in the 2020/21 season and made 10 appearances but his time at the club was blighted by injuries. The 23-year-old joined for an undisclosed fee after being offered a new contract by Burnley, which resulted in compensation needing to be agreed, but he was released after relegation to League Two.

The Gas could be coming up against Koiki next season if speculation is anything to go by. Football Insider claim that the left-back has turned down a new deal at Sixfields, with four clubs now chasing his signature. Portsmouth - who finished eighth, and Wycombe in ninth, want him, as well as Scottish Premiership duo Aberdeen and St Mirren.

Aberdeen - who have recently lost Ross McCrorie to Bristol City - have been assured of a place in the Europa League next season. The Dons will play in Europe, and the lure of coming up against some of Europe’s best could be an attractive offer.

Koiki was part of the Northampton side that won promotion to League One in May and made 24 appearances for Jon Brady’s side. He had reportedly attracted interest from League One and Championship clubs in January 2022.

Don’t expect a return to the Memorial Stadium for Koiki, as Joey Barton moved him on. He played just 320 minutes for the club, and he underwent surgery for an injury when his time came to an end at the club. Rovers will be on the search for a left-back however with Lewis Gordon their only option, after Callum MacDonald was allowed to leave for Mansfield Town.