As we approach the deadline, Sam Down profiles some left field potential new additions who could join the greens with the help of a special guest writer…
Roman Hale – ST – Ross County – permanent.
18 goals from 42 league games in standout SPL campaign despite being relegated? That sounds like a good place to start.
Hale is 5”9 26 year old Poacher – perhaps a south Roy different physical profile to the strikers so far but with a real willingness to press nonetheless. The Northern Irish striker would compliment Tom Cleverley’s high press approach however he needs to work on his build up play. As much as he is a quality finisher (6 goals from 8 in the Scottish Championship so far this season) he can do more in terms of assists.
Michael Olakigbe – Winger- Brentford – Loan
21 year old Olakigne is a pacey winger looking to beat his man and create goals. He is predominantly right footed but strong with his left and is comfortable across the attacking midfield and wide roles – as well as having a great sense of flair.
Unfortunately he suffered a fractured fibula stunting his growth for Wigan last year but strongly impressed in L2 for Chesterfield, definitely ready to be given a full season in league one. Only two career goals but definitely someone who can advance us.
Callum Olesusi – Midfielder – Tottenham – Loan
Aged just 18, this versatile midfielder would be looking to get on the ball and drive forwards. His youth football was played in highly possession based side, using short passes and quick interchanges to influence sharp attacks which TC wants. At his age, there will questions on physicality, however is definitely ready for the step up to the mens game after featuring as a substitute vs Hoffenheim in the Europa League.
Ethan Williams – Winger- Manchester United – Loan
Two footed creative winger – highly versatile with good end product. Typically a winger but can be utilised a forward if needs be. Good loan to cheltenham 4g/a and ready to kick on in L1… ah what’s that, he’s signed for Falkirk since we wrote this? Never mind
Donnell McNeilly – Forward – Free Agent
Highly rated ex Chelsea Youngster McNeilly had 93 appearances across youth competitions in 2023–24 with 52 goals and 12 assists. In 2024–25: 30 appearances and 13 goals + 2 assists
This forward would be looking to stretch defences with his pace and physicality similar to other academy products like Solanke and Abraham. He refused new deal at chelsea in order to gain first team minutes – Championship potential is definitely there however no mins in men’s football meaning he’d ideally develop to a good level with us. It would be in the nicest way, Classic Argyle to develop and sell on with huge profit
Dan Scarr – CB- Wrexham- Permanent
A Two Time League One promotion winner.
We don’t need to say much about Dan Scarr but he brings leadership qualities and ariel strength to the back line – allows Argyle to play 3 back during games where we are likely to dominate ball vs teams ready to play long and fast.
I know TC said recently it was a non starter but…Frankly given the recent awful form, a switch in formations wouldn’t hurt. Out of favour and unregistered by Wrexham in their 23 man squad – cut price deal BRING HIM HOME.
Kelly N’Mai- Salford- Winger- Permanent
The Dutch youngster plays primarily as a left midfielder, but also effective in attacking midfield or as a right winger. He won players player of the year 24/25 9g 5a in L2 for a reasonable salford side. Another player outperforming xG, N’Mai is ready for the step up and on radar of top performing L1 clubs with potential to play even higher.
Samson Tovide- Colchester- Striker- Permanent
We’ll start with his most recently availbile stats:
L2 this season
Matches/Minutes: 4 appearances totaling 264 minutes.
•Goals: 1 goal scored.
•Shooting: 6 shots, 3 on target; xG of 0.93.
•Passing: 18 successful passes (58% accuracy); created 1 chance; xA of 0.27.
•Dribbling: 5 successful dribbles (71% success).
•Aerial Duels: Won 36% of aerial challenges.
Struggled to stay fit last season but still managed 7 goals in 29 league appearances for L2 – consistently out performs his XG. This striker wanted by Luton would cost under 750k and would be a coup to resell as well – returning to our older philosophy of invest to sell.