Blackpool FC has been proactive in the transfer market, securing Watford striker Ashley Fletcher on a free transfer. Fletcher, a former Manchester United player, joined after his contract with Watford ended. Despite a challenging stint at Sheffield Wednesday last season, where he failed to score in 28 appearances, his previous experience in League One, including scoring five goals in 21 matches for Barnsley in 2016, makes him a promising addition. His arrival addresses a crucial need in Blackpool’s forward lineup, especially after Shayne Lavery’s departure. Last season’s top scorer, Jordan Rhodes, has re-signed, but in his absence, the team struggled to find the net.
Further signings are anticipated, with discussions underway about George Byers potentially returning. Byers, who has attracted interest from both Championship and League One clubs, has been successfully signed twice before by director David Downes. This familiarity could be advantageous for securing his return. Additionally, Blackpool might consider the loan market, given the success they had with Karamoko Dembele last season. Dembele, who had limited first-team experience before joining from Brest, caught the attention of Premier League clubs due to his impressive performances at Blackpool.
Neil Critchley, known for his ability to develop young talent, could leverage his experience from managing Liverpool’s academy to bring in promising young players. Here, we explore some potential loan signings from the Premier League and Championship who could strengthen Blackpool’s squad.
### Brad Hills – Norwich City (Accrington Stanley)
Brad Hills, a 21-year-old center-back from Norwich City, had an impressive season on loan at Accrington Stanley. Standing at six feet one inch, Hills played 48 matches across all competitions, scoring three goals and keeping 12 clean sheets. He also captained the team twice and earned two caps for England’s under-21 team. Hills’ solid defensive skills and leadership qualities make him a valuable candidate for a loan move to Blackpool.
### Mo Faal – West Brom (Doncaster Rovers and Walsall)
Mo Faal spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Doncaster Rovers and Walsall, where he showcased his potential by scoring 15 goals in 53 games across four competitions. Although tipped to break into West Brom’s first team, another loan spell could further his development. Faal’s goal-scoring prowess would be a significant asset for Blackpool’s attacking lineup.
### Louie Barry – Aston Villa (Stockport County)
Louie Barry, an Aston Villa forward, had a successful loan spell at Stockport County, scoring nine goals and providing four assists in 22 appearances. Stockport County is keen on a permanent move, but Villa might prefer seeing Barry advance in his career by playing in League One. His attacking capabilities and potential for growth make him an ideal loan signing for Blackpool.
### Matthew Craig – Spurs (Doncaster Rovers)
Defensive midfielder Matthew Craig from Spurs played 20 times for Doncaster Rovers last season, contributing two assists and a goal. His presence was instrumental in a team that only suffered two league losses after his arrival. Craig’s defensive stability and ability to contribute offensively could bolster Blackpool’s midfield.
### Thimothée Lo-Tutala – Hull City (Doncaster Rovers)
Goalkeeper Thimothée Lo-Tutala, a France under-20 international, had a productive loan spell at Doncaster Rovers, keeping nine clean sheets in 20 games. Although he was an unused substitute for Hull City eight times last season, his loan experience and international call-ups to the under-21 squad highlight his potential. Lo-Tutala’s goalkeeping skills would be a valuable addition to Blackpool’s squad.
### Michael Mellon – Burnley (Morecambe)
Michael Mellon, a center-forward from Burnley, had an impressive first half of the season on loan at Morecambe, netting 13 goals in 22 league matches. He then moved to Scotland for the second half, scoring three goals in 14 games. Mellon’s scoring ability and experience in different leagues make him a promising candidate for a loan to Blackpool.
These potential loan signings from the Premier League and Championship could provide the depth and talent Blackpool needs to compete effectively in the upcoming season. Neil Critchley’s track record with young players suggests that these prospects could thrive and significantly contribute to the team’s success.
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