Tranmere Rovers are currently the lowest scorers in the entire English Football League, not just League Two, and changes are needed if they are to climb the table. So, which players could they look to bring in this January?
This season, Tranmere have only managed to score ten league goals in their first 14 matches, with an average of 0.7 goals per 90 minutes. They’ve created just 16 big chances, which is 26 fewer than Walsall, who lead in this area.
Callum from The Deck spoke with fellow writer and Tranmere Rovers fan Jack Walton, who suggested that if he were in charge of their winter recruitment, a goal-scoring striker, ideally with experience, would be at the top of his list.
Given their goal drought, it’s hard to argue with Jack’s assessment, although their struggle to create opportunities indicates that the issue may not be limited to the strikers. The problem might lie more with the players supplying them, especially since last season’s standout loan player, Rob Apter, is no longer with the team.
With that in mind, here are five potential attacking targets that Tranmere Rovers should consider this January…
Connor Parsons: Free agent
Parsons is a well-known name for fans of Wycombe Wanderers, Norwich City, or Solihull Moors, thanks to his previous spells in English football before spending the last two years with Irish Premiership side Waterford.
The 24-year-old is currently out of contract with the Irish club and could be available for a minimal compensation fee, paving the way for a potential return to England. During the 2024 season, he contributed to six goals, primarily playing as a winger or wing-back, though he also has the versatility to operate as a number ten.
With his EFL experience, Parsons would boost chance creation and add depth to the attacking options. Considering how affordable a deal would likely be, a club like Tranmere should strongly consider signing him, even though I’ve recently suggested that some National League sides could also make a move for him.
Ciaran McGuckin: Rotherham United
Unlike Parsons, McGuckin is an out-and-out striker who has recently returned to Rotherham United after a loan spell with National League side Yeovil Town, where he scored three goals in six matches and made his League One debut against Barnsley shortly afterward.
During his brief time with Yeovil, the 20-year-old averaged 1.5 successful dribbles, 4.8 duel wins, and 1.7 shots per game, quickly becoming a fan favorite among the supporters.
While he may not be the “experienced” type, McGuckin’s abilities in the final third would certainly enhance Tranmere’s attacking options. He’s a forward who brings high energy to his game and thrives on making runs behind defenders, posing a significant threat to opponents. In my opinion, Tranmere should seriously consider pursuing him in January.
Josh Stones: Wigan Athletic
Unlike McGuckin, Wigan Athletic striker Josh Stones might be available for a permanent move in January. He is currently on loan at National League side Oldham Athletic, but that spell is set to end at the start of the New Year.
The 21-year-old has already made an impact, contributing to two goals in his first three matches in all competitions since rejoining Oldham. According to journalist Alan Nixon, Stones is reportedly open to a permanent departure from Wigan Athletic to secure more consistent playing time.
Stones brings a strong, physical presence to the attack, capable of leading the line and making runs in behind the defense when needed. Securing him on a permanent deal could inject significant quality into Tranmere’s forward line as they enter the second half of the season.
Chris Conn-Clarke: Peterborough United
As with Parsons, Tranmere’s January targets shouldn’t be limited to strikers, and a player who deserves consideration is Peterborough United’s Chris Conn-Clarke, potentially on loan for the rest of the season.
Conn-Clarke delivered a remarkable 35-goal contribution in 47 matches for National League side Altrincham last season, helping them reach the play-offs before moving to Peterborough for an undisclosed fee in the summer. However, injuries have hampered his start at Peterborough, limiting his first-team appearances, which might make him a candidate for a loan move.
The 22-year-old has multiple caps for Northern Ireland’s U21s and may be interested in a loan to increase his chances of a senior team call-up. He can play as a left-winger or an attacking midfielder, providing versatility and creativity to Tranmere’s attacking options.
Max Biamou: Free agent
Rounding out the list is a current free agent who finished the 2023/24 season in League Two with Doncaster Rovers and brings valuable promotion-winning experience: French striker Max Biamou.
The 34-year-old has achieved promotion twice with Coventry City and is a former teammate of Tranmere captain Tom Davies and Declan Drysdale. Last season, he made a solid impact in League Two, scoring three goals in seven appearances.
Biamou is a classic target man, skilled at holding up the ball and linking up with wide players or a strike partner, which aligns perfectly with Tranmere’s 4-4-2 formation. His style of play could provide a significant boost to their attack.
