Bristol Rovers have yet to make a summer signing but transfer speculation has picked up over the last fortnight.
The Gas are reportedly closing in on the free transfer of James Wilson, who left League One winners Plymouth Argyle this week. The 34-year-old has decided not to join the Pilgrims in the Championship and instead according to BristolLive, has agreed personal terms with Rovers, and just needs to complete a successful medical.
Wilson’s arrival will be a major relief given the lack of options at centre-back. His potential arrival signals that Rovers are slightly moving away from their preference of signing young players and are adding some much-needed experience to help complement what is a youthful side.
The centre-back has 376 career appearances to Date, and 262 of those have come in the third tier. A two-time League One winner, his imminent arrival could be the signing that inspires others to join Joey Barton, who is trying to assemble a team capable of challenging for the play-offs.
Wilson isn’t the only player linked with a move to the Memorial Stadium, Josh Dacres-Cogley from Tranmere Rovers is apparently on the transfer shortlist. Dacres-Cogley, who had experience in the Championship with Birmingham City, is wanted by several League One clubs, but could also stay at Prenton Park. A right-back seems to be a position that is on the agenda, with Tom Sang linked, but he chose to join Port Vale.
Based on the rumours reported so far, here’s what the Rovers team could look like on the first day of League One.
5. RM: Scott Sinclair
It’s still a dream that Sinclair is back with his beloved Bristol Rovers. He could be an important player next year, and a full pre-season under Joey Barton could see him have a good year. | Getty Images Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images
6. CM: Jordan Rossiter
Rossiter’s injury in December was a big blow, and until Grant Ward and Lamare Bogarde joined, there was an obvious gap in the midfield. Rossiter’s a brilliant player and hopefully he’ll be fit for next season. | Getty Images Photo: MacNicol/Getty Images)
7. Grant Ward
A big boost for Rovers this summer was Ward signing a new deal with the club. His injury problems seem to be behind him, and he was ever present following his January move. | Getty Images Photo: Alex Burstow/Getty Images
8. CM: Antony Evans
We’ve got Evans, Antony Evans... This season could be big for Evo, who still has a lot to offer. He was the talisman in the League One campaign, and we’re looking for something like that off him this year. | Getty Images Photo: Harry Trump/Getty Images