Swindon Town have decided against signing former Crawley Town defender Scott Malone and will now explore alternative transfer targets before the window closes.
With the January transfer deadline fast approaching, Swindon are making final adjustments to their squad as they look to push up the table in the second half of the season. Following their 5-1 victory over Carlisle United at the weekend, the club has eased relegation concerns and can now focus on building momentum for the remainder of the campaign.
Malone Trains with Swindon but Move Called Off
With injuries to George Cox and Billy Kirkman limiting options at left-back, manager Ian Holloway invited Malone to train with the squad last week as the 31-year-old looked to prove his fitness.
The experienced full-back, who has played over 500 career matches for clubs including AFC Bournemouth, Millwall, Fulham, and Derby County, had been a free agent since leaving Crawley Town by mutual consent in November.
However, after two days of training, Swindon decided to pass on the opportunity to sign Malone, instead shifting their focus to other areas of the squad.
“I didn’t give him [The Run] to do in the end,” Holloway explained. “Things happened and the money was taken up, so it wasn’t about that [his fitness] in the end. He is a lovely kid and I might have a look at him in the summer, but he won’t be coming now.”
Swindon’s Final Transfer Plans
Despite opting against signing Malone, Swindon remain active in the final days of the window. Holloway has indicated that permanent outgoings are unlikely, but incoming signings remain a possibility.
A loan move for Barnsley midfielder Josh Benson has been linked, with journalist Alan Nixon reporting that discussions are ongoing. Additionally, Swindon have a potential replacement lined up if Swansea City decide to recall Joel Cotterill from his loan spell at the Nigel Eady County Ground.
Malone’s Recent Career
Malone signed for Crawley Town in the summer after leaving Gillingham, but his time at the club was short-lived. Despite featuring in the Carabao Cup against Swindon early in the season, he was frozen out of the squad after August and never made another appearance before his contract was terminated.
The left-back has enjoyed a solid career in the Championship and League One, with notable spells at Millwall and Derby County. His future remains uncertain, but with Swindon no longer an option, he may need to wait until the summer for his next move.
Writer’s View
Swindon’s decision to pass on Malone suggests the club is prioritising other areas in the transfer market. While defensive cover remains an issue, the club may feel other options are more suitable at this stage. With the transfer window closing soon, expect the Robins to finalise at least one more deal before the deadline.
