After kicking off our Transfer Target Series by looking at options between the sticks, attention now turns to the heart of Doncaster Rovers’ defence—a department suddenly in urgent need of reinforcements.
Following their triumphant League Two title win, Rovers now face the harsh reality of stepping up to League One without three of last season’s central defenders. Joe Olowu and Tom Anderson have departed at the end of their contracts, while experienced head Richard Wood has hung up his boots. That trio leaves behind a significant void—both in terms of leadership and defensive stability—that must be addressed swiftly this summer.
In this next instalment of the series, we’ll spotlight realistic centre-half targets who could bring the leadership and reliability to Grant McCann’s backline. Whether they’re rising talents hungry for minutes or seasoned professionals ready for one more battle, these are the defenders who could form the spine of a League One-ready Doncaster side.
Who’s next to marshal the backline at the Eco-Power?
Conor Masterson – Gillingham (free)
Despite an injury-hit season, Conor Masterson remained a standout when fit, continuing the excellent form that saw him ranked among the best defenders in League Two last year. Commanding in the air, calm in possession, and surprisingly productive going forward, Masterson offers a unique skill set that Doncaster could badly use.
He finished the 2022/23 season as the second-highest scoring centre-back in League Two, behind only Omar Beckles. McCann has previously called for more goals from across the pitch, and while Owen Bailey has begun to answer that call from midfield, the defence still lags behind. Masterson’s aerial threat and ability to get into attacking positions (74 touches in the opposition box) could help close that gap.
A ball-playing centre-half with real poise, he completed over 2,300 touches and maintained a 77% pass accuracy last season. He also created 17 chances—an eye-catching stat for a defender—and posted an impressive 78% dribble success rate.
Out of contract and potentially available on a free, the 26-year-old has Irish ties that may appeal to McCann and Cliff Byrne’s familiar recruitment preferences. Similar to Olowu in profile but with more composure on the ball and greater consistency, Masterson would be a shrewd, long-term addition—with his injury record being the only real cause for caution. Worth noting that the Gills have offered him a new deal but surely a move up the leagues would be more temping?
Sam Lavelle – Carlisle United (free)
One of the brightest individual performers in a struggling Carlisle side, and also the captain, Sam Lavelle was a victim of circumstance this season. Despite relegation, his form held strong, making him a standout option for any League One side in need of experience and composure at the back.
Lavelle boasts serious EFL pedigree—with nearly 300 appearances with spells at Morecambe, Charlton, Burton, and Carlisle—and he has previously earned promotion to League One with Morecambe in 2020/21. Despite his club’s poor showing, Lavelle remained statistically elite: 85% pass accuracy, 1400 successful passes, 46% long ball accuracy (top 15% for his position), and a massive 82% dribble success rate.
He also contributed at the top end, notching 4 goals and an assist this season, and finishing with a commendable 7.09 FotMob rating. Aerially dominant (70% success rate), tough in the tackle (255 duels won), and smart in positioning (39 interceptions), Lavelle would bring experience and immediate reliability.
Released at the end of the season, he’s now a free agent—and probably the best all-round, realistic option on this list, surely with several clubs now sniffing about for his signature.
Michael Ihiekwe – Sheffield Wednesday (Free)
At 32, Michael Ihiekwe may be in talks with MK Dons, but Doncaster would do well to enter the race for a proven leader and winner. With eight years spent in South Yorkshire and a free agent following his release from Sheffield Wednesday, relocation wouldn’t be an issue—and his experience would be invaluable.
Ihiekwe has incomparable experience in the EFL regarding promotion, and an understanding of what it takes to get out of League One, winning four promotions (three with Rotherham, one with Wednesday) and would be an ideal replacement for the retiring Richard Wood. Still averaging around 30 appearances per season over the past three years, he’s shown he has plenty left in the tank.
Statistically, he remains solid: 6.4 duels won per 90 with a 67% success rate, including 4.9 aerials at 73%. He boasts an 85% passing accuracy—ideal for McCann’s build-from-the-back style—while also contributing modestly in attack with 2.1 touches in the opposition box per 90. A composed, experienced option who knows how to get promoted.
Ryan Johnson – AFC Wimbledon (Free)
Ryan Johnson brings more than defensive stability—he brings leadership, mentality, and a winning track record. The 28-year-old captained Wimbledon on 18 occasions last season and has played key roles in two separate promotions in recent years (Hartlepool and Stockport).
His recent campaigns at League Two level have been outstanding. This season, he helped Wimbledon finish with a league-best 0.8 goals conceded per game and 21 clean sheets. Johnson’s defensive stats are superb: 307 duels won, 211 aerial duels, 2444 touches, and over 1,000 successful passes.
His Northern Irish background and prior links with McCann and Byrne add an extra layer of suitability. Still only 28, he’s entering his peak years and could thrive in League One while pushing for a senior international breakthrough.
Stephan Negru – Oxford United (loan)
At just 22, Negru represents a younger, high-upside option for Rovers. After earning promotion from the Irish First Division with Shelbourne and featuring in Oxford’s League One side last season, Negru spent 2024/25 on loan at Salford, where he truly impressed.
Despite playing only 30 games, he ranks in the top 2% of defenders for defensive actions in League Two. His aerial dominance (73% success), tackling, and leadership (he captained Salford in just his second appearance) highlight his maturity beyond his years.
With Oxford now preparing for life in the Championship, another loan—or even a permanent deal—could be on the cards. If Doncaster are looking for youth with experience, Negru fits the bill. Irish links again could help get this one over the line.
Deji Elerewe – Bromley (Free)
An honourable mention, but not without merit. Elerewe is a wildcard option—young, raw, and untested at League One level—but his recent performances for Bromley suggest significant potential.
In just 17 starts, the Charlton academy graduate posted 87% dribble success, 72% tackles won, and 1 goal and 2 assists—decent returns for a young defender. He was instrumental in Bromley’s run-in, including a resolute display in their 1-0 win at the Eco-Power in March.
