Fresh off the back of a remarkable title-winning campaign, Doncaster Rovers now quickly turn their attention to the challenge of survival in League One. The step up in quality is significant, and smart recruitment will be crucial in ensuring their title-winning momentum isn’t lost. In this Transfer Target Series, we’ll spotlight realistic signings who could strengthen Grant McCann’s squad—whether it’s adding depth, experience, or a touch of quality in key areas. Each piece will assess the player’s profile, tactical fit, and how they could contribute to Donny’s push to establish themselves in the third tier once again. From rising stars to proven campaigners, this series is all about how Doncaster should be able to build a squad ready to compete, survive, and thrive.
With the departure of some key Rovers players at the end of the season, it offers rovers the opportunity to build upon and strengthen the gaps remaining come the end of their contracts in the coming months. Amongst the most influential players that will exit the club upon the end of their contracts this summer, Chelsea loanee Teddy Sharman-Lowe will leave the number one shirt unattended, and so this article’s point of interest lies in that goalkeeping position.
So who will don that number one shirt next season?
Teddy Sharman-Lowe After completing an impressive feat of playing every single minute of Doncaster’s League Two title-winning campaign, Teddy Sharman-Lowe can absolutely be considered a key figure in the club’s historic league two-topping run in the last season. His season-long loan from Chelsea saw moments of inconsistency early on, but the young goalkeeper’s performances in the second half of the season helped restore faith in his shot-stopping ability, particularly after his stellar display at Hull City’s MKM Stadium in the FA Cup third round. As one of the strongest modern day ‘keepers in the division, TSL impressed each week with his outstanding sweeper abilities, in which he topped the charts statistically with 56 high claims and 40 instances of sweeping. In regard to his distribution, “TSL” is just as strong. Much obliged to manager Grant McCann’s ambitious playmaking style, an able-footed goalkeeper is a necessity, and TSL absolutely leaped at this, completing 69% of passes, including a near 40% long ball success rate – completing 286.
Beyond his stats, it was his character that stood out—forming part of a famously tight-knit dressing room that became the foundation of the club’s title charge.
While Chelsea have triggered an option to extend his contract through 2026, a permanent move could still be feasible, particularly given the lack of a clear path to first-team football at Stamford Bridge. However, wage demands and potential interest from higher-tier clubs could complicate matters, particularly now that the youngster has notched an England U21 cap under his name. If Donny could pull it off, bringing Sharman-Lowe back—this time for good—would maintain continuity and reward a player who clearly loves the club. At such a young age, the 22-year-old has already showcased so much development in recent months, and absolutely has much more to display, with the glimpses of shot-stopping potential that the 6”2 goalkeeper possesses.
Nathan Baxter
Having previously worked under Grant McCann at Hull City, Nathan Baxter is a goalkeeper who already understands what the Rovers boss demands. Released by Bolton Wanderers this summer, Baxter represents a chance to bring in a 26-year-old with solid pedigree and a point to prove. His track record is impressive: a UEFA Youth League winner and English Premier League 2 champion during his time at Chelsea, he knows what it takes to compete at a high-pressure environment, and one that only considers the idea of winning.
Baxter’s distribution may not quite match Sharman-Lowe’s, but his shot-stopping is where he really excels. Although he struggled to secure the starting spot at Bolton this season, he showcased his potential last year with 14 clean sheets, a 74% save rate, and a +2 goals prevented tally, sitting well amongst the top 97% percentile in the division for goalkeepers defensively. Having moved between several clubs over recent years, Doncaster could offer him the stability and regular game time he’s been missing—something both parties could benefit from. Of course, this would be an ambitious move, going in for a number one that, almost certainly, would be contributing to a top 6 side’s promotion efforts, should Bolton not have released him.
Timothee Lo-Tutala
One of the surprise stars of Doncaster’s late-season surge, Timothee Lo-Tutala arrived at the Eco-Power Stadium on loan in January 2023 and quickly became a fan favourite. With electric reflexes, confident distribution, and a commanding presence in goal, the 22-year-old Frenchman offered a glimpse into what could be a very bright future. In just 18 appearances, he posted a remarkable 74.3% save percentage, conceded only 14 goals from 60 shots, and kept 7 clean sheets—while preventing an outstanding 3.4 goals based on expected metrics. Considering the youngster only appeared for Rovers during the second half of the season, his complete statistical desolation of his fellow league two goalkeepers showcased his unquestionable qualities.
Lo-Tutala is not just numbers, though. His passion, flair, and high-octane style brought fans to their feet and helped lift the mood around the club at a critical time, riling up the travelling fans on several occasions, with his truly entertaining goal celebrations. Agonisingly, TLT’s penalty heroics in the playoff semi-finals against Crewe Alexandra last season did not come into fruition, as the promise of a trip to Wembley fell short at the final hurdle, but a deserved league one trip, just 12 months or so from his exit would be truly fitting. A revenant story if you will.
Unfortunately, a permanent deal seems unrealistic with Hull City tying him down until 2028, but another loan move—this time at a League One level—makes a great deal of sense. If Donny can convince Hull of the development opportunity on offer, a reunion could be a major boost to their survival hopes.
Dillon Phillips
Rotherham United’s unlikely struggles this season may have overshadowed the performances of some individuals, but goalkeeper Dillon Phillips quietly had a very strong campaign despite the dilapidation around him. Now a free agent, the 29-year-old is an intriguing option for Doncaster, particularly given his local ties and previous experience in the Championship. He also has history with Grant McCann, having been in goal for Charlton during that agonising playoff loss for McCann’s Doncaster Rovers in 2019.
Phillips is arguably the most complete goalkeeper on this list. He saved 70% of the 136 shots he faced, prevented three goals, and kept six clean sheets—despite operating behind one of the worst defences in the Championship. Known for his sweeping ability and aerial dominance, he ranked among the best in the division with 22 high claims and 26 sweeping actions. Add to that his long-range passing (343 completed long balls), and you get a well-rounded, battle-hardened option who could anchor the back line for several seasons. This has been a pretty common theme throughout this research project. Grant McCann has expressed previously that continuity at a club is essential for success, and so, at some point, a permanent goalkeeper must come in. Pair this with the extensively long contract deals in recent times, and you’re looking at a minimum two-year contract for the London-born number one.
Max Crocombe
If Doncaster are looking for a reliable, battle-tested goalkeeper with a strong League One record, then Max Crocombe is a name worth circling. The New Zealand international was instrumental in Burton Albion’s survival this season, regularly bailing out his defence with strong hands and smart positioning. Prior to that, his time at Grimsby Town—where he
achieved promotion from the National League—showcased his leadership and ability to perform under pressure, alongside that invaluable winning experience that Grant McCann so thoroughly enjoys recruiting – as seen in both veterans Billy Sharp and Richard Wood.
At 31, Crocombe offers valuable experience and a commanding presence. Statistically, he matches up well with any goalkeeper in the league: 133 saves, 70% save percentage, 12 clean sheets, and an imposing 41 high claims. His 24 sweeper actions and 331 completed long balls also show his willingness to step off his line and launch attacks quickly, something McCann often demands. While his passing accuracy may dip due to this style, his consistency and physicality could offer a solid foundation in Donny’s return to League One. At 31, some spectators may turn their nose up at the idea of an aging signing, though it must be noted that most goalkeepers reach their prime performance around the age of 34. In other words, the old boy has plenty of years left in the tank just yet.
Each of these goalkeepers offer something unique to themselves. Whether this may be youth (the opportunity to develop), experience (additional guidance to a high in confidence side pushing for a strong start to life in League One), loyalty, or statistical excellence, Doncaster’s decision on their next number one will depend heavily on financial availability, and tactical fit. Whether they opt to bring back a familiar face or take a new direction entirely, the next man between the sticks will be crucial to their League One ambitions. External perspective may see Doncaster pushing for survival as a main aim, but the internal opinion differs: “When we do get into League One, I think anyone who knows me by now will know we’ll not be settling for 14th or 15th position. We’ll be pushing next year and, as I say, hopefully we’ll be competitive” – Grant McCann.
