National League sensation joins Bristol City

Bristol City have completed the signing of Aldershot Town attacking midfielder Josh Stokes for a fee believed to be in the region of £250,000. 

The 19-year-old has scored 16 goals in 29 appearances for the National League side this season and has signed a three-and-a-half year contract with the Robins, although he will be loaned back to the Shots for the remainder of the current campaign. 

Released by Ipswich Town at 16, Stokes has managed to bounce back into the EFL and Aldershot manager Tommy Widdrington believes the teenager has shown character to rebuild his career. 

“It’s come as no surprise to any of us that Josh (and others) have attracted so much interest considering the season he and we’ve had so far,” Widdrington told Aldershot's club website. 

“It should also come as a stark reminder of what’s possible to any player who’s faced disappointment at any stage of a fledgling career and act as a motivation to keep at it and believe in yourself.

“There were lots of clubs at all levels keen to acquire Josh’s services, but I think Bristol City is a great fit for all parties to continue his football journey.

Stokes himself stated: “I’m delighted to sign for Bristol City, it’s a massive club with huge ambition. They’re a club that gives young players an opportunity and I’m looking forward to the next few years.”

The likes of Brentford and Coventry City were reportedly also interested in signing Stokes, but the Robins are understood to have edged ahead in the race for his signature due to their track record of developing players and their willingness to let Stokes return to Aldershot for the rest of the 2023/24 season. 

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