Charlton Athletic have set their sights on Bristol Rovers striker Aaron Collins amid interest from League One rivals Bolton Wanderers, according to Bristol Live.
The 26-year-old has been a huge hit at the Memorial Stadium since his arrival from Forest Green Rovers in 2021, contributing 38 goals and 24 assists in 139 appearances. He played a huge role in the Gas’ promotion from League Two in 2022 and was rewarded with a new contract that is set to run until 2025.
Although he has just three League One goals to his name this season, he has still pitched in with nine assists and has caught the eye of a number of teams. He was left out of the Rovers’ 3-1 win over Oxford United at the weekend as speculation ramped up over a potential exit this week.
Reports emerged yesterday that Bolton Wanderers had seen their initial £600,000 offer rejected, with the third tier club valuing their man at closer to the £1 million mark. It is now claimed that Charlton have also seen an approach rebuffed, although the figure of their offer has not been disclosed.
It’s been a hectic month at the Valley, culminating in the sacking of manager Michael Appleton last week. They began the campaign as one of the early season favourites for promotion, but they now sit just four points above the relegation places following a run of 13 games without a win in all competitions.
There has been an array of arrivals since the transfer window opened on New Year’s Day in an attempt to salvage their season and it is believed that they are not finished yet. It remains to be seen as to whether they return to the table in their pursuit of Collins, although they have been linked to a number of attackers throughout the month.
The report also credits Wrexham with an interest as the League Two club look to secure their second successive promotion.
Writer’s View
This is one that could go to the wire. Bristol Rovers are holding out for a fee of close to seven figures and it is unlikely that any of the interested parties are going to part with that kind of money.
A compromise will need to be reached in order for this one to move forward. Bolton have to be considered the favourites, with Collins more likely to want to move to a club that has a realistic chance of playing in the Championship next season.