Bristol Rovers could lose star midfielder Kamil Conteh this summer after only recently returning from a spell at Lincoln City.
The Sierra Leonean international was sent up to the third tier in the winter window despite the struggles of the Gas in their quest to avoid relegation to the National League, with Steve Evans signing both Richie Smallwood and Tommy Leigh on loan to fill the gap left in his midfield.
Permanent Exit Tipped
While he failed to have any impact during his spell at Sincil Bank, playing once after Michael Skubala’s side had already secured the League One title, Conteh could be set for another switch up a division this summer.
In the Pirates’ retained list announcement, it was confirmed that the former Grimsby Town man has been transfer-listed while remaining contracted at the Memorial Stadium alongside six other teammates.
According to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, third-tier sides are now circling and eyeing up a move for the 23-year-old, with multiple sides eyeing up squad rebuilds ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Evans did not reveal his specific reasoning as to why the defensive midfielder was put up for sale during his explanation for the retained list’s decisions, but did state that he would be open to signing both Tranmere Rovers‘ Richie Smallwood and Bradford City‘s Tommy Leigh permanently.
Who Could Use Conteh?
Despite some injury and illness issues which have blighted his recent career, Kamil Conteh has still shown he can cut it in the EFL, and after a half-season spell stuck on the sidelines at Lincoln City, he will be eager to establish himself as a regular again.
Of course, Bristol Rovers could use a player like him in their ranks, but with Steve Evans already on the path to a full clearout to get the club back fighting for promotions rather than against relegation, the funds Conteh could raise could be key to those plans.
One path forward could be to return for someone who became a firm favourite at the Mem in Tommy Leigh, and perhaps striking a swap deal with Bradford City for the pair could benefit both clubs with the Bantams at possible risk of losing Jenson Metcalfe if interest arrives in the summer.
Reading may also be interested in a move, with Cardiff City already lining up a push to sign Charlie Savage, which will leave Leam Richardson’s men with a massive hole in the middle of the park alongside Lewis Wing.
