Notts County goalkeeper Alex Bass, who played 39 league games for the Magpies last season, has joined Peterborough United for an undisclosed fee, as per the club’s official website.
Bass Heads To Peterborough
The 27-year-old moved to Meadow Lane in the summer of 2024 after keeping 16 clean sheets with AFC Wimbledon in the 2023/24 campaign.
His performances were also excellent last season as he kept 13 clean sheets in 39 league games as the Magpies reached the League Two playoffs. Bass made more saves and had a higher save percentage than 91.3% of League Two goalkeepers and he prevented more goals than 89.3% of his peers.
Notts County owners Chris and Alex Reedtz said the following when discussing the departure of their number one:
“While it was never our intention or desire to sell Alex during this transfer window, following strong negotiations we have agreed terms which match our high valuation of him.
“When taking this decision we have, of course, considered whether we can adequately replace him and work is already underway to do that.
“We would like to thank Alex for his excellent performances and wish him well for the future.”
What Does This Move Mean For Notts County?
Bass’s unforeseen departure leaves the Magpies with a major problem in the goalkeeping department as they released backup goalkeepers Tyler Miller and Sam Slocombe at the start of this summer.
However, Slocombe has rejoined the club as a goalkeeping coach meaning he could still potentially play in goal during training if needed.
Alongside announcing the departure of Bass, Notts County have also announced the acquisition of Harry Griffiths from cross-city rivals Nottingham Forest. The 20-year-old spent time at AFC Wimbledon as a youngster and he spent time out on loan at Barwell FC in the Southern League Central Premier Division last season.
Director of Football Roberto Gagliardi offered another reassuring update to fans, saying:
“It’s vital that we create sufficient competition and support within the goalkeeping department and, as well as signing Alex’s replacement, we’ll be looking to add a third player in this position before the end of the transfer window.”
How Important Is This Move For Peterborough?
The Posh have endured huge problems when trying to nail down a first-choice goalkeeper over the last couple of seasons.
Nicolas Bilokapic was signed for a fee from Huddersfield Town in the summer of 2023 but inconsistent performances have led to him being rotated with Jed Steer.
Ahead of this summer, Darren Ferguson’s men announced that Bilokapic had been placed on the transfer list whilst Steer’s contract was mutually terminated for personal reasons.
This left the Posh with Will Blackmore as their only real option in goal but the 23-year-old has only ever played nine times for Peterborough.
Writer’s View
The Reedtz brothers have made a number of big decisions in the last few months which look set to define their time in charge at Meadow Lane.
The likes of Daniel Crowley, David McGoldrick and now Bass have been allowed to leave the club despite being key players and they have put a highly-experimental staff structure in place for next season.
It is imperative that the Magpies recruit a good replacement for Bass as goalkeepers are the roots of success. Perhaps they will turn to their playoff final hero from a couple of years ago, Archie Mair.
As for Peterborough, Bass is a really solid signing. He is coming off the back of two impressive seasons in League Two and he should be a key part of the Posh’s bid to return to the top end of League One.
