Andy Woodman and his side couldn’t have asked for a better first half of the 2025/2026 season with the Ravens perched at the top of the League Two table as we start the new year.
But, with the joint third smallest squad size (24) in the fourth tier, according to transfermarkt, and one of the smallest budgets in the league, Bromley will have to recruit strategically to ensure that automatic promotion doesn’t slip through their fingers.
Below I suggest three potential signings that would offer depth and quality to help Bromley see the already remarkable job through for the remainder of the season.
PL2 2025/2026 Season Statistics:
Given that the majority of Bromley’s midfield squad depth tend to operate in the two ‘8’s’ of the favoured 4-1-4-1 formation, cover for the important and sole defensive midfielder Ashley Charles is important.
Furthermore, it will prevent the Ravens from suffering without the Grenadian if a sudden injury or suspension was to occur.
Therefore, manager Woodman should use the loan market to effect like he has done in previous years and recruit 20-year-old Dylan Reid in January from Crystal Palace U21s.
The Scotsman, formerly of St Mirren and an U19 Scotland international, possesses both great vision and defensive ability which can be exemplified through his 1.62 chances created and 2.5 tackles per 90.
He can also pop up with the odd goal contribution too – his latest coming against Birmingham City U21 in early October.
Reid would certainly fit into the direct, athletic tactical style of Bromley due to the above traits, whilst on top of that should fit into the squad’s dynamics with another Crystal Palace youngster in Jemiah Umolu already being on loan at Hayes Lane.
In addition, the defensive midfielder coming in would perhaps allow Alex Stepiene-Iwumene of Bromley to go out on loan to gain more much needed first-team minutes in a National League side.
Most Recent Season (2024/2025) Statistics:
With no cover for Bromley left back Idris Odutayo, it is crucial that an extra defensive body comes in on the left side.
Ali Koiki, formerly of Northampton Town, is now a free agent that could follow the route of former Cobblers Mitchell Pinnock and Will Hondermarck by swapping Sixfields Stadium for Hayes Lane.
After being highly sought after in the summer by EFL clubs such as Colchester United and Cheltenham Town, the Ravens should swoop in for Koiki who grew up in London and played for Crystal Palace’s academy during his youth.
Koiki’s strengths certainly suit Bromley’s tactical style as well in his ability to successfully progress the ball up the pitch and enter the final third whilst also being solid in defence.
Moreover, this signing would allow Idris Odutayo to play centre back if needed without weakening Bromley’s options at left back.
League Two 2025/2026 Season Statistics:
Although the numbers above don’t look overly promising, Owura Edwards had eleven goal contributions (seven goals and four assists) in an impressive 2024/2025 campaign where he won Colchester United goal of the season with his strike against Walsall.
Furthermore, the versatile winger has had limited minutes as a result of the outstanding form of wide pair Harry Anderson and Kyreece Lisbie and therefore has fallen out of favour with boss Danny Cowley.
The above factor being partnered with his contract running out in June 2026 suggests that Edwards will leave the U’s and may make his way to South-East London for either a six-figure fee or pre-contract agreement.
Bromley have scored the second most goals in the league so far this season with 42 however none have been by their starting wingers Mitchell Pinnock and Corey Whitley.
Pinnock makes up for it with his league leading eight assists and devastating crossing threat.
But, on the other hand, Whitley’s lack of attacking contribution is quite alarming: statistics such as only four successful dribbles and two successful crosses this season do not flatter the 34-year-old.
Therefore, bringing in a younger forward that can play on either side would be beneficial for Bromley who lack pace and flair on the attacking flanks – particularly on the right wing.
Another but more expensive addition Bromley could look at, that is similar to Edwards’ style, would be 22 year old winger Abdul Abdulmalik of Boreham Wood.
The winger has eight goals and two assists in the National League so far this season.
Do you agree with my choices?
Comment below any other players that you think Bromley should realistically sign this January window.
