Bristol Rovers will seemingly be in the market for players in a number of positions but centre-back perhaps is the most important.
The Gas for the second-half of the season which inspired them to promotion were reliant on two 20-year-old’s in their first time away from parent clubs at a professional team.
Connor Taylor, who was nominated for the League Two Young Player of the Year Award was on loan from Stoke and was here for the whole campaign. Taylor’s centre-back partner James Connolly meanwhile joined from Cardiff City on loan in January and excelled from the outset.
With both now back with their parent clubs, it leaves Rovers with just Alfie Kilgour as an out-and-out recognised senior centre-back and even then, the 24-year-old struggled with injury this season.
Rovers did hand a contract to Jamie Egan, an 18-year-old who spent time on loan at Hereford and he could be considered but more options will be needed over the course of the season.
Left-back Nick Anderton can of course play in the position as can utility man Josh Grant, but it is a position that perhaps needs the most strengthening.
Building from the back was key to Rovers’ success as they racked up a number of clean sheets whilst the attacking players did the job, winning sometimes narrowly thanks to the sturdy defence.
With a new division to look forward to, Rovers’ transfer targets may change as they may be able to offer more money and are also looking to challenge for a second promotion according to Joey Barton.
Below are some centre-backs that we believe could be considered as potential signings for Rovers this summer.
1. Aden Flint
To start of, a controversial suggestion... Aden Flint formerly of Bristol City has become available after leaving Cardiff City following three years of service. Flint has experience of winning League One after scoring an impressive 14 goals from centre-back. Played for Swindon Town previously so history of playing in the West Country. Recently relegated Derby County are interested however. Photo: Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
2. Sol Bamba
The 37-year-old has just been released by Middlesbrough following a season at the Riverside. Bamba has never played at League One level but after basing himself in Cardiff for five seasons, a return down South could be a viable option to wind down his career. Photo: Alex Pantling/Getty Images
3. Alex Pearce
Millwall decided to release their club captain Alex Pearce following three years at The Den. Pearce’s leadership qualities could be needed in what was a youthful back line last season. The 33-year-old has played just shy of 450 games in between the Premier League and the Championship. Photo: Alex Burstow/Getty Images
4. Jason Pearce
Another Pearce that has donned the captain’s armband. Jason Pearce was let go by Charlton after six years at the club. After captaining Portsmouth, Bournemouth, Leeds and Wigan Athletic, he could be exactly what Rovers need. He may turn 35-years-old in December but experience is needed in this division. Photo: Andrew Redington/Getty Images