Blackpool figure coy on transfer saga after Nottingham Forest player pursuit

Marvin Ekpiteta penned a new contract with the club this week, which has led people to wonder what the future holds for Bowler. 

The 23-year old’s contract runs until the end of the season, but Blackpool hold a 12-month extension clause in his contract so can avoid losing him on a free if this is triggered. 

But Mansford has kept his cards close to his chest when asked where the club stands on what will happen next with Bowler. 

“We’ll announce new contracts if there are new contracts to announce,” said Mansford, via The Gazette. 

“It’s a real credit to Josh how he’s handled himself after a lot of speculation in January. He deserves a lot of credit.

“As Critch said recently, he’s outperforming a lot of his peer group in the division statistically and he’s got six goals in his last eight games now.

“He will attract interest and we have good dialogue with Josh and his representatives. We’ll have to keep everyone updated as to how things go.”

Bowler was subject of intense transfer speculation in January with both Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth circling around the player. 

His performances in recent weeks have caught even further attention, having scored six goals in Blackpool’s last eight games.

This has led to speculation that Premier League clubs such as Brentford, Leicester City, Norwich City and Wolves are all interested in Bowler.

Bowler’s teammates Keshi Anderson, Richard Keogh, Gary Madine, Jordan Thorniley and Grant Ward are all also in the same situation as Bowler. 

Blackpool are currently 14th in the Championship table, nine points adrift of the play-off places with only 11 games remaining. 

Next up for Neil Critchley’s side is the visit of Swansea City to Bloomfield Road on March 12.

Bowler’s recent form has