Former Chelsea and Reading Defender Makes Switch To League One Rivals

League One side Bristol Rovers have confirmed the signing of 23-year-old left-back Clinton Mola following his release from fellow League One outfit Reading last season.

According to the club website, the versatile defender has signed a three-year deal, with the option of a further year. He becomes Rovers’ second signing of the summer, alongside former Walsall man Isaac Hutchinson.

A product of Chelsea’s academy, the Englishman made 35 appearances for the Royals last season, starting 19 games in total in League One.

The 23-year-old is also well capped at England youth level, having made appearances in the England under-15s set-up all the way up until the under-21s level.

Mola has also had stints abroad with the likes of German outfit VfB Stuttgart before returning to England and joining Reading in the summer of 2023.

Bristol Rovers needed a left-back after the departures of both Lewis Gordon and loanee Harvey Vale, alongside the retirement of now club director of football, George Friend.

Speaking to the club website, Mola said:

“Joining Bristol Rovers is an exciting opportunity for me.”

 “When I heard the Club was in for me, I was very interested. The Club has made me feel very wanted and that was a big part in my decision to join Rovers. I’m very happy to be here and I’m looking forward to getting going.”

“With the ambition that comes from the manager, the coaching staff, and from above too, this is a very positive Club to be at. When you have a Chairman and a Board of Directors who are ambitious, that trickles down in the right way through the entire Club. For me, that’s one of the most positive things about being here.”

Writer’s View

It is no secret that the Gas needed to add in defensive units this transfer window. The departure of Chelsea loanee Harvey Vale has left a gaping hole in Matty Taylor’s squad going into next season.

The signing of Clinton Mola not only adds depth to the squad but also offers a young, yet experienced and versatile option in defence.

A three-year deal with an option of a further year also shows Bristol Rovers’ intent and ambition as a club.

RELATED ARTICLES

BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT

Leave a comment