Stockport County are undergoing a huge rebuild following David Challinor’s departure, with ex-player Jimmy McNulty now building a side in his image in time for the 2026-27 season.
Their transfer business is swiftly underway, recently adding Barnet star man Ryan Glover to their ranks. Now, County look set to dip into the League Two market again, but they will face competition from one of their divisional rivals.
Ossama Ashley was recently released by Salford City following their humiliation at Wembley, courtesy of Notts County. Although it appears the midfielder is destined for League One following his impressive season for the Ammies, as he is now on Stockport County’s radar.
Stockport County to Face Competition for Ossama Ashley
Stockport’s interest in Ashley has been reported by Pete O’Rourke, who also states that their divisional rivals, Barnsley, are interested in the midfielder.
And it comes as little surprise to see League One sides interested in Ashley’s services. The 26-year-old has been a standout in League Two for several years for both Salford and Colchester United.
Last season, he topped the division’s charts for the most interceptions with 71. It was apparent that the midfielder would be playing in the third tier soon enough, one way or another. Now, after his release from the Ammies, he is available as a free agent.
Either club will need to act fast, as Ashley is sure to have interest from all over the football pyramid. He is in the peak years of his career, and a step up to England’s third tier feels fitting for him.
Stockport County and Barnsley’s Rebuilds
While Stockport County and Barnsley recently finished 12 league positions apart, their tasks are similar: rebuild.
County were embarrassed at Wembley with a 4-1 defeat to Bolton Wanderers in the play-off final, while their league season did not quite live up to expectations despite a third-placed finish.
The feeling that Challinor had taken the club as far as he could was prominent, meaning the club then pursued Rochdale’s Jimmy McNulty, who will take charge at Edgeley Park next season.
Barnsley, on the other hand, have been declining down the League One table over recent years. Usually regarded as a heavyweight at this level, recent performances have been a shadow of the 2022-23 team that lost at Wembley to Sheffield Wednesday.
It will be interesting to see where Ossama Ashley ends up. He would be a reliable and exciting pick-up for either club given his performances, age, and credibility over the years.
