Bradford City are eyeing a move for experienced defender Joe Wright following his release by Scottish Premiership side Kilmarnock.
The 30-year-old is a free agent and reportedly weighing up a return to England after three seasons in Scotland, with the Bantams said to be among the frontrunners.
Graham Alexander Eyes Reunion With Ex-Doncaster Centre-Back
Wright, who began his career in the Huddersfield Town academy, rose to prominence during a five-year stint with Doncaster Rovers, making 157 appearances after joining the club in 2016. Known for his aerial dominance and composure on the ball, he became a dependable presence at the heart of Doncaster’s defence during their years in League One.
His performances north of the border have also attracted attention. After leaving Doncaster in 2021, Wright signed for Kilmarnock, helping them secure promotion to the top flight and making a solid impression in the Scottish Premiership. With his contract now expired, the 6ft 4in centre-half is understood to be favouring a return to English football.
According to reports from the Daily Record, Wright has options in both Scotland and England but is being heavily linked with Bradford City, who secured promotion back to League One on the final day of the 2024–25 season. A reunion with Bantams boss Graham Alexander could be on the cards, with the pair previously crossing paths during Alexander’s managerial stint at Motherwell.
The club has already been active in the transfer market, moving swiftly to bolster their squad. Veteran midfielder Max Power was the first new face through the door, followed by experienced centre-back Curtis Tilt from Salford City. Both signings reflect Alexander’s clear emphasis on adding battle-hardened League One performers to the group.
Wright, whose peak years were spent in the third tier, fits that mould. His consistency at Doncaster and proven ability to handle the physical demands of League One make him an attractive proposition for a Bradford side aiming to make a swift impact following promotion.
Writer’s View
Joe Wright would be a textbook addition to Graham Alexander’s Bradford City side—steady, experienced, and already proven in League One. With Curtis Tilt already on board, adding another commanding centre-half would provide not just cover, but serious competition in key defensive areas.
Wright’s history with Alexander gives the move an added layer of logic, and after three solid seasons in Scotland, he appears ready for another EFL challenge. If a deal is struck, it could be another smart step in what’s shaping up to be a shrewd summer at Valley Parade.
