Exeter City transfer latest as two loan deals collapse late on

Exeter City have suffered double disappointments this week as two potential transfers fell at the last hurdle. The Grecians are the only side in the top four divisions in England not to have made a signing so far this summer – but had expected two to arrive at St James Park this week.

Deals had been struck to bring the pair on loan to Devon. But both deals collapsed when the parent club backed out at the last moment.

It is understood by DevonLive that a goalkeeper has been due to arrive on loan this week. Terms with the player had been agreed, only for the manager of the parent club to pull the plug and put the move on hold.

A second loan signing had been due to arrive at St James Park earlier in the week. But the parent club had at the last moment decided to take the player on their pre-season tour, halting the move to the Grecians, for at least a week, if not longer.

Manager Matt Taylor admitted that it was a ‘kick in the gonads’ that two deals that looked done had fallen apart late on. He said that they have put offers in front of players, but they won’t be making signings just for the sake of them and that anyone coming in has to add quality.

“I could sign ten players right now who won’t add to what we have got and that won’t benefit anyone,” Taylor said after the 1-1 draw at Yeovil Town. “We are looking for players who will do something different to what we have got.

“If that happens day before the season, day after the season starts, then so be it. Sometimes we have to wait for it to be right and for the best benefit of the club.”

Asked if he was concerned about the fact there had been no arrivals yet, Taylor said the club is always looking to add quality, but they can’t force players to sign. He said that they