Sell or keep? The Blackpool players that could be in the shop window this summer as transfer season beckons

Blackpool have enjoyed a very promising first season in the Championship since winning promotion from League One via the play-offs.

A top half finish is still achievable for Neil Critchley’s men who are 16th on 57 points with three games remaining.

The Tangerines’ recruitment has been first class in recent years and played a key role in making the leap from the third tier last season.

That success has continued this season with Shayne Lavery, Josh Bowler, Jordan Gabriel and many others playing their part in consolidating their position in the Championship.

The upcoming summer window will provide a chance for Critchley to add quality to his current squad, but may also pose some challenges if some key personnel depart.

Here, we have taken a look at whether Blackpool should sell or keep two of their current squad…

Josh Bowler: Sell

Josh Bowler has arguably been Blackpool’s best player this season, and the club reserve an option to extend his contract by a further year this summer.

However, that clause does not mean he will definitely stay put and if they hold onto him, they risk losing him for free at the end of next season.

If the Tangerines want to recoup the maximum fee for Bowler, they should sell the 23-year-old while his stock is so high this summer.

Josh Bowler: Keep

In the absence of points deductions and potentially with stronger teams coming up from League One, Blackpool could find it a lot tougher to comfortably stay up next season, especially if they lose Bowler.

Therefore, they should keep hold of the former Everton man next season, in the hope that they can persuade him to sign a new contract, having played the best football of his career under Critchley, the forward would be best advised to remain at