Bristol Rovers manager Joey Barton has confirmed he would love to re-sign Connor Taylor on loan from Stoke City - but understands the young defender might not be let back out.
Centre-half Taylor, aged 20, played a key role in Bristol Rovers' dramatic promotion from League Two during a season on loan.
He has returned to Stoke for pre-season and his progress has been recognised with the award of a new three-year contract. He was one of a few players who have featured regularly in warm-up games to sit out of Stoke's 2-0 friendly defeat at Bristol Rovers last night - and League One clubs are queuing up in case Michael O'Neill decides to sanction another loan.
Taylor has put himself in contention to be a part of Stoke's league plans but the transfer window is open until September 1 and there is recognition that the best thing for his development will be playing week in, week out.