Former Bristol Rovers star future ‘in balance’ after transfer talk

Cheltenham Town remain hopeful of keeping Liam Sercombe - but face a battle to keep hold of him after transfer interest from League One and League Two clubs.

Sercombe's contract at Whaddon Road expires this summer, and the Robins offered him new terms in May, but he has yet to put pen-to-paper on a new deal with Wade Elliott's side. The 33-year-old has amassed more than 600 appearances in his professional career, and is considered an influential figure at Cheltenham, because of his experience in the game.

GloucestershireLive journalist Jon Palmer said: "Cheltenham Town keen to retain influential and experienced midfielder Liam Sercombe, but there is interest from League One and League Two clubs. In the balance."

Sercombe was a transfer target for Bristol Rovers in January 2022, when they were chasing promotion to League One, with a loan bid made which was rejected, and then were rebuffed when they made a permanent offer. Joey Barton ended up signing Elliot Anderson from Newcastle United, and then Jon Nolan on a free transfer. He is still based in the West Country area, most specifically Bristol, and whilst there is an uncertainty over whether Rovers maintain an interest, he could be an option to consider should Grant Ward not sign a new deal at the Memorial Stadium.

He spent three seasons as a player at the Mem, and made 127 appearances, registering 19 goals and 17 assists. Rovers have lost Paul Coutts and Glenn Whelan in the midfield department, leaving them with Luke McCormick, Antony Evans, Jordan Rossiter, Josh Grant and the youthful Jerry Lawrence. Barton stated last month that it was important to replace both Coutts and Whelan, given their standing in the game, and Sercombe could be someone of interest to help share his experience with the younger players in the squad.

Sercombe isn't the only player that looks set to leave Cheltenham with Alfie May almost certain to depart, despite there being a year left on his contract. May scored 20 goals for them last season, but has attracted interest from Derby County and Wrexham, and a bid is expected to be lodged this month. Bristol Rovers academy graduate Ryan Broom looks to be on his way out too, despite being offered a new contract. Broom is wanted by Fleetwood Town, and a move was reportedly agreed, but things have gone quiet, though the transfer window does not open officially until Wednesday, June 14.