Swindon Town are actively searching for a new forward before the transfer window closes on September 1, as reported by the Swindon Advertiser this week. Manager Ian Holloway is aiming to bring in one more attacking player to bolster a squad that currently sits 7th in League Two with four points from two games.
Who are Swindon Town's current forward options?
Holloway's immediate need stems from the injury to Fletcher Holman, who is not expected back until at least the middle of December. The club's existing forward line includes Aaron Drinan, Ollie Palmer, Joseph Hungbo, Paul Glatzel, Joe Snowdon, Jaylan Pearman, and Louis Millard. With two goals scored and one conceded so far this season, adding more firepower is a clear priority for a team that is just two points behind leaders Barnet. Fans can track the team's progress on our standings page.
Which players are under consideration?
Two specific names are in the frame for a potential move to the County Ground. Kain Adom of Burton Albion is one candidate, though he is returning from a long-term broken leg. The other is Danny Butterworth, who has not played since October after undergoing two surgeries for a ruptured hamstring. Holloway has indicated Butterworth would be the preferred option among out-of-contract players who do not need to sign before the Tuesday deadline, but he expressed nerves about the player's existing injury issues.
What is the situation with Ayman Benarous?
The 23-year-old former Bristol City youngster had a summer trial with Swindon Town and impressed during a friendly against National League side Forest Green Rovers. Holloway felt Benarous fitted nicely into the team, and he comes with strong reviews from his time at Bristol City and Plymouth Argyle. However, he suffered a shoulder injury at the end of the first half of that friendly and has been recovering for the last month. Holloway has not ruled out inviting him back. "I am not sure, he's still injured. It is his shoulder. And would it pop out again? I don't know," Holloway told the Swindon Advertiser.
What happens next in the transfer search?
The likelihood is that Benarous would become a fallback option if Swindon cannot secure their primary forward targets before the window shuts. Holloway's comments highlight the time pressure. "I'm hoping upon hope that he can prove that he might be able to, because if he can’t, I need someone now." he said. The club's immediate focus is on securing a forward who can contribute immediately, with the trip to Oldham Athletic and the rest of the season's fixtures in mind. The final decision will hinge on fitness assessments and availability as the deadline approaches, with the club's recent form of a win and a draw providing a solid platform to build upon.
