Opinion – could these be some of Port Vale’s January transfer moves?
A fans-eye view of what could possibly transpire at Vale Park during the January transfer window.
Rob Fielding writes…
Outgoings
The internet rumour mill has been buzzing with suggestions of a David Worrall move to Stockport County but I can’t see it myself. Worrall (pictured) is playing a division higher, settled with a strong chance of being first-choice on the right and seems to enjoy club, manager and staff. A move which I think is more likely would see Harry Charsley depart Vale Park. The midfielder has done little wrong but due to the strength of competition in the middle he just hasn’t had game-time this season. He’s started just four League games so far and will surely be looking for regular football elsewhere.
A more worrying move would be if Jack Stevens were to depart Vale Park. Oxford Utd manager Karl Robinson has said he will consider whether the loan should continue in January. If Stevens is recalled then Aidan Stone is inexperienced and Lucas Covolan seemingly destined for the exit door so it could mean a late scramble for a first choice keeper during the window.
Any other departures? Possibly some of the youngsters may be given game time. I’d love to see Tommy McDermott to have a loan spell at a decent non-league level (remember how it helped Nathan Smith’s development!).
Incomings
There are two areas where Vale are a little short – the left flank and upfront. On the left, Vale have seen Chris Hussey, Thierry Small and (apparently, though not officially confirmed) Liam McCarron all depart. It leaves just Mal Benning as the recognised left wingback and it’s entirely possible that the Vale may look to the loan market for some competition.
The other problem area is upfront. Like almost every other club, Vale could do with a reliable, injury-free striker but of course that’s easier said that done. Vale may be forced to stick with what they’ve got. Some fans have written Jamie Proctor (pictured) off but I remember him being a major force last season and with experience in League One he could still add something when he returns. Judging him on some barely fit outings at the start of the season and writing him off was too hasty, I think. Proctor’s return may be just the boost Vale’s forward line needs.
Any other moves? Well, I confess I am a Dennis Politic fan. Just look at his stats this season and it’s difficult to argue that he doesn’t change games. However, I doubt very much if Vale will be able to tempt Cremonese to sell just yet (maybe the summer). However, it may be a different story for Dan Butterworth. He’s 23 and in search of regular football, without a squad number at his parent club and out of contract in the summer. He’s shown glimpses of real potential and I would be happy if Vale sounded out Blackburn Rovers to see if a mutual contract termination in January would be a possibility.
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