A resolution in the Isaac Hutchinson transfer saga could come shortly after a new update on the Bristol Rovers midfielder.
The Pirates have been in a negotiation standoff with fellow League Two strugglers Cheltenham Town in the first few days of the January transfer window, with the clubs’ respective managers believing the other should contact them in order to settle whether Hutchinson will stay on loan at the Robins.
Update Revealed
According to Bristol Live earlier today, Isaac Hutchinson is in talks with Bristol Rovers boss Steve Evans at the Gas’ training ground in order to discuss a recall back to the Memorial Stadium.
Understand Isaac Hutchinson is back at Bristol Rovers today for talks with manager Steve Evans about a possible recall, midway through his season-long loan at Cheltenham Town #ctfc #brfc
— Jon Palmer (@JonPalmerSport) January 5, 2026
It follows comments made by the former Stevenage head stating that it was his intention to recall the former Walsall midfielder as part of their efforts to fend off a first relegation out of the EFL since 2014.
Hutchinson joined Rovers ahead of last season from Walsall, and played 43 times for the club as they suffered relegation into League Two. He started the campaign in blue and white, but left for Cheltenham at the start of September on a season-long loan.
The 25-year-old has previously expressed his desire to remain at Whaddon Road for the rest of the season, which both he and manager Steve Cotterill have stated in interviews leading up to January 1st.
Can Evans Convince Hutchinson?
Steve Evans’ need to bring Isaac Hutchinson comes from a need for creative players to help Fabrizio Cavegn, who is undoubtedly Bristol Rovers’ best goalscoring threat this campaign.
His performances at both Walsall and Cheltenham Town back up that belief, with the midfielder being outstanding time and time again to change the fortunes of matches.
However, with Hutchinson not wanting to play for Rovers again following targeted abuse at the start of the season, it will be a very tough sell for Evans to change Hutchinson’s mind and bring him back into the fold.
Therefore, it feels very unlikely that the Pirates’ manager will be able to get the 25-year-old back onside, which will be great news for Cheltenham and their fans.
However, further conversations will have to happen, with the potential of a permanent sale also on the cards should Evans feel Hutchinson does not want to play for Bristol Rovers again, and Cheltenham surely hoping to sign their star player going forward.
