Bristol Rovers have inquired about bringing local boy Miguel Freckleton back to the Mem on a free transfer, Bristol Live understands, but face considerable competition from clubs across the EFL to sign the Lockleaze-raised defender.
Freckleton was with the Rovers academy in his early teens as a midfielder but left to play for Mangotsfield United while attending SGS College, and his performances in the Southern League attracted the attention of Sheffield United who signed him on a two-and-a-half year contract in 2021.
The Gas did bank a small amount of compensation following the move, having retained the rights to the player.
Freckleton’s agreement at Bramall Lane expires next month and although the 20-year-old has been offered fresh terms following an impressive campaign on loan at Chesterfield in the National League, he is understood to be exploring his options.
Rovers are among a number of clubs keen on signing him, including the Spireites, as they prepare for life in League Two, along with Bradford City and Fleetwood Town, but also the Gas’ League One rivals Wycombe Wanderers, while several sides in the Championship are monitoring his situation.
Freckleton is a tall left-sided cultured centre-back who has been compared to Chelsea star Levi Colwill in terms of playing style, and could be viewed as a replacement for either Tristan Crama or Elkan Baggott with both loanees having returned to Brentford and Ipswich Town, respectively.
Rovers have Connor Taylor, James Wilson and James Connolly in position for next season but manager Matt Taylor requires further depth and options, particularly towards the left-hand side of the backline.
Freckleton also very much fits the desired model of the club’s Kuwaiti co-owners who desire younger squad additions in the mould of Kamil Conteh who possess considerable upside and can provide value not just in the short-term but potentially long-term with regards to the transfer market.
Freckleton appears to be at the stage of his career where he simply wants to play consistent first-team football after loan spells at Chesterfield, Yeovil Town and Wealdstone, although the Blades are keen not to let one of their most talented Under-21 players leave for mere compensation.
With 13 players departing the Gas this summer, including loanees, Director of Football George Friend has a serious job on his hands reinforcing and replenishing a squad that finished 15th in League One last term after an inconsistent campaign under Joey Barton and then Taylor.
Rovers are also waiting on the decisions of Scott Sinclair, Jordan Rossiter and Luca Hoole who have all been offered new deals.