Grimsby Town have reaffirmed their interest in Walsall’s Andy Cook, The Express and Star understands.
Cook was Walsall’s top scorer last term, with his 17 goals in League One leading him to be named Saddlers’ Player of the Year. However, Cook’s contribution was not enough to save Walsall from relegation to League Two as they finished in 22nd place.
Naturally, the relegation of a known goalscorer to League Two has attracted the attention of many league rivals, with Grimsby Town the frontrunners. Grimsby have struggled for goals since the loss of Omar Bogle in 2017, mustering only 45 goals last season. The Mariners’ manager Michael Jolley has previously identified his main goal for the summer being “to get more goals into the team”. This intent was confirmed yesterday at Grimsby announced striker Matt Green as their first signing of the summer.
Newly-appointed Walsall manager Darrell Clarke has stated his intent to keep Cook at Bescot Stadium, disclosing that Cook would only be solved if the move was “right for the club”. However, the current situation at Walsall would likely result in the club being reluctant to sell. The Saddlers only have 13 senior players on their books, making them reluctant to sell their most valuable asset. Furthermore, Walsall have struggled since the loss of talisman Erhun Oztumer last summer, indicating the risks of selling core players.
Grimsby will face competition if Walsall become open to the idea of a sale. Salford City have also registered their interest in the striker as they prepare for a first season in the Football League. The Ammies have already confirmed four signings this summer, and are looking to add striking options who could support experienced striker Adam Rooney next season.
