After the unfortunate news that Bolton Wanderers star Amario Cozier-Duberry will face a lengthy spell of between 8 and 10 weeks on the sidelines, the Trotters are on high alert for a forward in the remaining week of the transfer window.
Now, it appears they are entering a transfer race for a goalscorer from the lower half of League One, but are met with competition from their promotion rivals in Bradford City, Huddersfield Town, and Luton Town.
Port Vale Set to Lose Devante Cole
According to reports from Football League World, the three League One clubs are interested in a deal for Port Vale’s Devante Cole.
The striker has returned eight goals in 23 appearances across all competitions despite relegation already appearing to be a strong likelihood for Port Vale.
Before making the move to Vale Park last summer, the striker had already earned a rich pedigree in the third tier, having hit double figures in his last two League One seasons for Barnsley.
Having shown that he is still more than capable in the division, Cole has attracted the interest of several promotion-chasing sides.
Losing the striker would be a particular blow for the Valiants, after losing star striker Lorent Tolaj to Plymouth Argyle in the summer, who has since gone on to be regarded as one of the most exciting forwards in the EFL.
Bolton, Luton, Bradford and Huddersfield Lock Horns for Cole
If a move for Cole is to go ahead, his destination could prove pivotal in the outcome of the promotion race.
As previously mentioned, Bolton need a goalscorer in Cozier-Duberry’s absence, if they are to keep pressure on second-placed side Lincoln City. Meanwhile Bradford City appear relatively thin up front, which has shown in Will Swan’s recent absence.
Similarly, Huddersfield have recently lost a star player of their own in Leo Castledine, who Chelsea opted to accept a bid for from Middlesbrough.
Luton are yet to find a true stride of consistency under Jack Wilshere, and Cole’s profile as a poacher in the box could be largely beneficial in helping the Hatters to see out more victories and establish themselves within the top six.
With the promotion chase in League One quite condensed, the addition of a proven goalscorer could vastly improve any side’s promotion prospects.
And with Port Vale’s relegation appearing more likely by the day, it is unlikely that Cole will want to stick around in League Two, so a move would not come as a surprise either now or in the summer window.