Carlisle United midfielder Ethan Robson is set for a deadline day switch to National League promotion-hopefuls Gateshead after falling out of favour since his summer arrival.
The midfielder joined Carlisle last summer but appears to be out of favour under new manager Mark Hughes, and appears highly-likely to make the switch to the National League and see out the 2024/25 campaign with Carl Magnay’s side.
This is according to the Sunderland Echo who have confirmed that whilst no agreement has yet been made, Gateshead are close to bringing him into the club before the transfer window slams shut until the summer.
Robson to leave Carlisle United?
The 28-year-old joined Carlisle United on a free transfer during the previous summer transfer window, but his move hasn’t gone according to plan thus far which has opened him up to the possibility of dropping down a division for regular first team minutes.
Robson has made just seven appearances in all competitions this season, which is significantly less than the 34 he made for fellow League Two side MK Dons last season.
He’s also yet to contribute to a goal for the League Two strugglers and hasn’t registered a league appearance since mid-February.
This suggests that the midfielder is out of favour at Carlisle and could head for either a loan or permanent exit.
Gateshead eye second midfield addition
On deadline day, Gateshead have already confirmed the signing of Middlesbrough U21s midfielder Brayden Johnson on a season-long loan and Robson could become their second signing.
Gateshead have suffered a drop in form since the turn of the year but remain in contention for finishing inside the National League play-off places and unlike last season, they will be able to compete for promotion this time around.
Magnay’s side lost midfielder Callum Whelan to Carlisle United during the January transfer window, which ironically pushed Robson further down the pecking order at the League Two side.
Carlisle currently find themselves 23rd in League Two, six points off safety with just eight games to play and could find themselves in the same division as Gateshead next season.
Is this a good deal for all parties?
Robson is currently out of favour, suggesting that his long-term future lies away from the League Two side regardless of their potential relegation.
Gateshead are in need of midfield acquisitions and would likely see Robson feature in all seven of their remaining league games as well as featuring in the play-offs should they qualify.
Upon joining Carlisle, Robson signed a two-year contract, meaning he is technically under contract for the 2025/26 season unless he’s allowed to depart on a free transfer.
The 28-year-old has EFL promotion-winning experience and would add leadership and quality into Gateshead’s midfield during a crucial stage of their season.
Readers what are your thoughts on this transfer?