Bristol Rovers are closing in on the signing of Bolton Wanderers goalkeeper Luke Southwood, reuniting him with boss Darrell Clarke.
The League Two side are believed to be close to finalising a deal for the Northern Ireland international, who has one year left on his deal at the Toughsheet Community Stadium.
Southwood Set for Memorial Stadium Reunion
Darrell Clarke will reunite with a familiar face as part of his summer rebuild: the two worked together previously at Cheltenham Town, where Southwood impressed during the 2022/23 season.
According to reports, the deal is nearing completion, with a nominal fee likely to be agreed due to Southwood’s contract status and Bristol Rovers’ ambition to strengthen between the posts. Goalkeeper coach James Bittner, another key influence from Southwood’s past at Reading, is also part of Clarke’s backroom staff, further smoothing the path for a move to the Memorial Stadium.
Southwood spent last season at Bolton Wanderers but found himself in and out of the side. Initially brought in as backup to Nathan Baxter, injuries and form issues handed the former Reading man a decent run in the team. He eventually racked up almost half of Bolton’s league fixtures, including their final two games of the campaign against Peterborough United and Stevenage.
Bolton’s Restructure Opens the Door
With Bolton boss Steven Schumacher keen to trim his squad for the new season, Southwood is one of several fringe players now surplus to requirements. Baxter has departed for Watford, and Chelsea youngster Teddy Sharman-Lowe has arrived on loan, with Luke Hutchinson also in line for increased senior involvement. That leaves Southwood without a clear path to first-team football in Greater Manchester.
The goalkeeper was not present at Bolton’s pre-season return on Tuesday, with the club stating that he had been given additional time off due to international duty. However, his absence has fuelled speculation that a transfer is imminent.
For Bristol Rovers, the move would bring in a proven League One and League Two shot-stopper with strong leadership credentials and a solid reputation. Southwood’s experience and composure could be pivotal as Clarke looks to push Rovers into the promotion mix this season.
Writer’s View
This deal makes a lot of sense for both player and club. Luke Southwood needs a fresh start and the chance to be a number one again, while Bristol Rovers are getting a goalkeeper with EFL pedigree who already knows the manager and goalkeeper coach well. Darrell Clarke’s rebuild has been quietly impressive so far, and the addition of Southwood would be another step in the right direction.
Rovers will be looking to improve on a mid-table finish, and securing a reliable stopper is a vital part of that process. With Clarke’s deep knowledge of the player’s capabilities, this move could prove to be one of the more understated but effective signings of the summer.
