Exclusive: Bristol Rovers want local boy back to BS7 but have competition in EFL

Bristol Rovers have taken an interest in bringing local boy Miguel Freckleton back to Mem on a free transfer, Bristol Live understands, but face considerable competition from EFL clubs to sign the Lockleaze-raised defender.

Freckleton was at the Rovers academy in his early teens as a midfielder, but left to play for Mangotsfield United while attending SGS College, and his performances in the Southern League caught the eye of Sheffield United, who signed him on a two-game and half. one-year deal in 2021. The Gas pocketed a small severance after the move, retaining the player’s rights.

Freckleton’s deal at Bramall Lane expires next month and although the 20-year-old has been offered new terms following an impressive loan campaign at Chesterfield in the National League, he is understood to be exploring his options.

Rovers are among a number of clubs keen to sign him, including the Spireites, as they prepare for life in League Two, alongside Bradford City and Fleetwood Town, but also Gas’ League One rivals Wycombe Wanderers while the most teams in the championship. monitor his situation.

Freckleton is a tall left-wing centre-back who has been compared to Chelsea star Levi Colwill in terms of playing style and could be seen as a replacement for either Tristan Crama or Elkan Baggott, both on loan to they returned to Brentford and Ipswich Town. , respectively.

Rovers have Connor Taylor, James Wilson and James Connolly in place for next season, but manager Matt Taylor needs more depth and options, particularly on the left side of the backline.

Freckleton also very much fits the mold of the club’s Kuwaiti co-owners, who want younger squad additions in the mold of Kamil Conteh who possess considerable upside and can provide value not just in the short term but potentially in the long term in terms of the transfer market.

Freckleton appears to be at the stage in his career where he simply wants to play consistent first-team football after loan spells at Chesterfield, Yeovil Town and Wealdstone, although the Blades are keen not to let one of the most talented Under -21 of them to leave. for simple compensation.

With 13 players leaving the Gas this summer, including loanees, director of football George Friend has a serious job on his hands, strengthening and adding to a squad that finished 15th in League One last term after a campaign inconsistent under Joey Barton and then Taylor.

Rovers are also awaiting decisions on Scott Sinclair, Jordan Rossiter and Luca Hoole, who have been offered new offers.