Walsall Lead Race For Premier League Forward

Walsall reportedly lead the chase to sign AFC Bournemouth forward Jonny Stuttle on a season-long loan deal.

The Saddlers will return to League Two once again this coming season, after falling short in the play-offs against AFC Wimbledon at Wembley and are likely to have ambitions of fixing their errors and sealing promotion this time around.

This could lead them to secure the signing of their latest forward target, though they aren’t alone in their pursuit of the 19-year-old.

Walsall lead Stuttle chase

As reported by journalist Pete O’Rourke, Walsall currently lead the chase to sign AFC Bournemouth youngster Jonny Stuttle.

The 19-year-old isn’t short of opportunities however, with the report also stating that clubs across League Two and the National League are also keeping tabs on his availability.

Following the success story of Nathan Lowe last season, the Saddlers are likely to be both hopeful and cautious regarding this potential move ahead of next season.

How did he fare last season?

The 19-year-old has been a regular on the youth scene with AFC Bournemouth recently, but spent last season on two separate loan spells in the Non-League scene. 

In December, Stuttle signed for National League side Aldershot Town, making ten appearances for the club across all competitions. During this time, he scored two goals with both arriving during an 8-0 FA Trophy win against Chertsey Town.  

Within a week of returning to the Cherries, Stuttle was loaned out to National League South side Farnborough, where he scored four goals in his first four matches including a brace against Chelmsford City.

He made a total of 19 appearances for Farnborough, contributing ten goals and two assists for the club. 

Is he EFL ready?

The step up from the National League system to the EFL can be challenging for a lot of young players and it is a big risk from Walsall to bring someone with little experience into the club. 

However, Walsall have already recruited players from the sixth tier this summer, suggesting they had scouts that were firm watches of the divisions and are aware of who the standout performers were.

Stuttle may have struggled at Aldershot, but his performances for Farnborough certainly suggest there is a talented player here and he could be a terrific signing if he is given the opportunity to show exactly what he can do.