Steve Evans has said it would take a ‘quite strong’ offer in order for Bristol Rovers to entertain selling star midfielder Clinton Mola in January.
The 25-year-old has been a key figure under the former Rotherham United boss since his arrival at the Memorial Stadium last December, thriving in a new defensive midfield role alongside veteran Richie Smallwood.
Evans Clarifies Mola Situation
However, questions around the ex-Chelsea prospect’s future have continued to swirl, with his contract currently set to expire at the end of the campaign, leading to some suggestions that a January sale may be considered.
The deal which brought him to the South West had included an additional clause which allowed for a further extension to his terms, having initially arrived on a free transfer from Reading.
Having played 16 games for the Pirates this season, Mola has already achieved his best attacking haul of his career, with a goal and three assists to his name, one of those coming in their FA Cup win over League One side Cambridge United.
Speaking to Bristol Live’s Will Murray about whether Mola could be sold in the new year, Evans stated that it was an ownership decision as to whether any move ultimately materialises.
“Listen, the one thing we have here, if our Chairman wants to keep a hold of him, he’ll keep a hold of him, won’t he?
“That’s the one thing with our Chairman – the pressure will never be to sell. It’ll be a bit whether a value’s released; everyone has a value, Will, you know that. Doesn’t matter whether you’re Bristol Rovers, it’s proven, isn’t it?
“Whether you’re at Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, if someone bids top-end money, then that would be totally out of my hands, but it would need to be something quite strong for Clinton Mola to be sold.
“He’s been sensational since I walked in the building. More importantly, he’s more sensational as a young man who comes into my office, and talks to me, and keeps my spirits high because there’s a little saying my wife’s family have got: everyone’s got feelings. And nobody’s felt this run more than me.”
Is Clinton Mola Likely To Be Sold?
Having gone from fringe player to key star, Clinton Mola has been the biggest beneficiary of Steve Evans’ attempted revitalisation of Bristol Rovers, and now the club is reaching a decision point as to whether they cash in.
His move into a midfield role has been the biggest boost to his career prospects, and with a solid partnership pairing with Richie Smallwood and Tommy Leigh, has proven to be a more than adept player in the middle of the pitch, having previously been a defender.
Naturally, his performances are likely to attract attention, and with January coming up, a fair few clubs may fancy their chances at putting an offer at Rovers’ door and see how they respond.
Mola has been a big bright spot in what is panning out to be another dour season at the Mem, and with results slipping further and further away from their initial promotion hopes, retaining his services will be key to try and reverse their fortunes.
For potential suitors, it seems that the Gas will have all the cards in their hand when it comes to negotiations, and with a contract extension clause available, Rovers’ chances of retaining their key man are very high.
