On Thursday, after an underwhelming spell that resulted in just one goal, front man Freddie Ladapo was released by Huddersfield Town, with the 32-year-old now free to choose his next club.
With over 70 goals in the EFL to Ladapo’s name he will be no short of admirers despite his spell in West Yorkshire.
So just which clubs could take a punt on the 6ft 1 striker?
Rotherham United
Should Ladapo choose to stay in the north, the most obvious suitor is his former club, Rotherham United.
From 2019 to 2021, the now 32-year-old scored 41 goals for the Millers and whilst the club do have the likes of Sam Nombe, Jordan Hugill and Kion Etete available up top, a reunion with Ladapo could be hard to turn down.
Despite big recruitment last summer, the Millers failed to meet pre-season expectations as Steve Evans was sacked, and the team finished mid table. This year, under local boy Matt Hamshaw, expectations have cooled but a signing with such connection as Ladapo could help propel the club into the playoff conversation down the line.
A closer move for Ladapo but one that presents sentimental value and the opportunity to be somewhere he is already appreciated after a difficult time at Huddersfield.
Playing time and wages could be a sticking point but certainly a move that that will be on several fans and players minds.
Stevenage
Alex Revell’s Stevenage have given Jamie Reid two new Duracell batteries this season, with the forward propelling the team into the playoffs as he looks for yet another 20-goal campaign.
What they lack, is another striker to back Reid up. Despite signing Gassan Ahdme, adding a player of the physicality of Ladapo could really be what Stevenage need to make a playoff run stick.
Whilst Ladapo needs to prove he can get back to his best form, he could provide real depth providing he is given time. The way Revell’s team play, with one up top, can utilise the forwards strength and size, potentially unlocking the ability he had during his time with Ipswich Town and Rotherham.
More of a shot for down the line as the season progresses but surely one that is worth a look if Stevenage’s form continues.
Colchester United
Another on the sentimental train for Ladapo, could a drop down the League Two and return to where it all began, be on the cards for the 32-year-old?
Colchester United lack seasoned forwards, with Samson Tovide currently doing much of the heavy lifting up top. Bringing in someone of the profile of Ladapo could provide some much-needed depth from a player who has more than excelled at the level.
Boss Danny Cowley stated in the week that the club have a free agent forward taking part in training, though refused to give more details on the player. Could Ladapo be that player?
Either way this is a move that would make sense for all parties. Colchester need help up top and it provides a move that would let Ladapo return to where it all began for him and really prove his worth at the club.
MK Dons
MK Dons have a squad filled with talent and that includes at the top of the pitch but that’s not stopped them adding before and I doubt it will stop them now.
Paul Warne managed Ladapo in his lucrative spell with Rotherham and whilst even he may argue that he has enough forwards in his squad, with Aaron Collins injured, one more wouldn’t hurt right?
32-year-old Ladapo would offer the same sort of profile as Callum Paterson in terms of physicality but could be an invaluable asset down the line if Warne can help him regain his old form.
A signing of the likes of Ladapo could end up being one of those moves that truly turns MK Dons into the final product they want to be. Should it land at their feet, a reunion between Warne and the forward could be a serious match.
Forest Green Rovers
A potential long shot but National League leaders Forest Green Rovers could have a look at what would be a scalp signing as they look to return the Football League.
After eight games, Robbie Savage’s team sit top of the league and are yet to lose a game. Over the summer FGR have been doing their best to make a serious case of getting back to where they believe they belong, continuing to bring in seasoned players from divisions above.
The coup of Ladapo would present serious intent from Dale Vince and FGR as they look to cement top place and get out of one of the toughest divisions in the country.
Certainly, a long shot at this stage but more and more league players are taking the step down to the National League, could Ladapo be next?
