Championship side Bristol City have announced the signing of forward Josh Stokes from National League Aldershot for an undisclosed fee, as confirmed via a statement on the club’s website.
Stokes has torn up the National League for Aldershot this season, where he will stay on loan until the end of the season after signing a deal with the Robins until 2027.
Stokes only joined the Shots at the beginning of this season from non-league side AFC Sudbury after impressing for them last season, and what a signing this turned out to be. So far this season, the 19-year-old has found the net 16 times and assisted three in 31 games, establishing himself as a star in the National League.
With much-speculated interest from clubs in the EFL looking to make a move, Bristol City was the club that managed to snap him up. Recently Appointed manager Liam Manning has the Robins sitting 13th in the division with a good start to life, having recently knocked Premier League side West Ham out of the FA Cup in a replay at Ashton Gate.
Stokes will return to Aldershot on loan for the remainder of the season, where the club will hope he can keep up his electric form as they push for the playoffs during the second half of the season. The Shots currently reside in 10th place in the league but are only one place off seventh.
Upon confirmation of the transfer, Aldershot manager Tommy Widdrington has stated via the club website…
“It’s come as no surprise to us that Josh has attracted so much interest considering the season he and we’ve had so far.”
“It should also come as a stark reminder of what’s possible to any player who’s faced disappointment at any stage of a fledgling career and act as a motivation to keep at it and believe in yourself.”
“There were lots of clubs at all levels keen to acquire Josh’s services, but I think Bristol City is a great fit for all parties to continue his football journey.”
Writer’s view
Stokes is one of the best talents to play in the National League in recent years, so it is no surprise that he has made the jump straight to the Championship—a phenomenal player who deserved to move for sure.
It is brilliant business from Aldershot to keep him on loan, and the rumoured transfer fee is a massive amount of money for any non-league side.