Viewpoint: long contracts could hinder a significant summer squad overhaul for Port Vale.
I have further bad news for you if, like many fans, you believe that the last few transfer windows have been (let’s get straight to the point) a disaster: I wouldn’t hold your breath for a significant squad revamp in the summer.
In a perfect world, Vale would restructure their team in response to their weak window sales, maybe in the manner of 2021, when eleven new players were added when Darrell Clarke was appointed. Many supporters believe that cutting some of the underperforming players and adding new talent would be the best course of action this summer. But in truth, it’s unlikely to occur as much of this Port Vale team is committed to long-term contract.
Consider the following players: Conor Grant, Ryan Loft, Jason Lowe, Alex Iacovitti, and Dan Jones. If they weren’t under contract, they might be candidates for release. Contracts with each of the five players extend through the end of the following campaign. Given the injuries that afflict Jones and Grant, the club appears to be offering an exceptionally generous deal.
Naturally, having most of your team contracted works both ways. While it may be comforting to know that Nathan Smith, Ethan Chislett, Ben Garrity, and Funso Ojo are all signed through the summer, having so many players committed to long-term contracts truly ties Vale’s hands.
Vale may only be able to bring in four outfield players in the summer if they operate on a one-in, one-out system. Goalie Jayson Leutwiler, Gavin Massey*, Lewis Cass*, Uche Ikpeazu**, and James Wilson are the players without contracts.
Considering that Vale can only acquire four new players, it will take a lot to meet their immediate demand for increased offensive capability. Furthermore, Wilson and Ikpeazu, two of the players that could be dismissed, are strikers by nature. Of course, the club could agree to some mutual terminations, but they appear improbable and could be expensive.
Even though I realize I’m going to sound like a broken record again, this circumstance definitely calls into question Vale’s hiring practices. How did we get into this uncompromising situation where our club, which has the potential to win the championship but even if it doesn’t, will likely barely make it through the season, will essentially be the same? Why were two-year contracts given out like candy, seemingly oblivious to a player’s age (Lowe) or history of injuries (Jones and Grant)? It’s possible that those anticipating significant roster changes this summer will be let down.
