Stockport County have shown considerable ambition in the transfer market, investing a club-record fee in Malik Mothersille from Peterborough to replace Isaac Olaofe, who moved to Charlton. The Hatters, who finished third last season before losing in the play-offs, will rely on retaining highly rated duo Ethan Pye and Lewis Bate, both of whom have attracted Championship interest. Manager Matt Bloomfield knows the division well and will be confident of another promotion push.
Luton Town, relegated from the Championship for the second successive season, retain quality in Teden Mengi and Millenic Alli. Cardiff City, also relegated, have appointed Brian Barry-Murphy as manager to arrest their slide. Huddersfield Town have turned to former Stoke goalkeeper Lee Grant for his first managerial role, signing experienced players such as Ryan Ledson, Murray Wallace, Lynden Gooch and Alfie May.
Steve Bruce, at Blackpool, has been given resources to strengthen central defence with Fraser Horsfall and Michael Ihiekwe, and with Ashley Fletcher leading the line, the Seasiders aim for a return to the Championship. Reading, who finished seventh despite off-field issues, have new owner Rob Couhig, which could bring stability. Bolton Wanderers, eighth last season, have loaned Teddy Sharman-Lowe and Amario Cozier-Duberry but lost captain George Thomason to Wrexham.
Leyton Orient, play-off finalists, have seen key loanees depart but anticipate the arrival of Manchester United youngster Jack Moorhouse. Rotherham United, after a disappointing 13th-place finish, have cleared out high earners and built a younger squad under Matt Hamshaw. Barnsley, Wigan Athletic, Lincoln City and Mansfield Town are also tipped as potential contenders for the top six.
Promoted sides include League Two champions Doncaster Rovers, who signed Connor O'Riordan to replace Joseph Olowu. Runners-up Port Vale have had a busy summer under Darren Moore, balancing youth and experience. Bradford City, the third promoted side, have added Ibou Touray and Max Power for knowhow. AFC Wimbledon, promoted via the play-offs, return to League One after six seasons in the third tier.
Among the players to watch are Reading's 17-year-old left-back Andre Garcia, who has 38 League One appearances and an England Under-18 cap, and Stockport's 19-year-old Icelandic striker Benony Breki Andrésson, signed from Bologna's academy. The season promises to be competitive, with several clubs harbouring ambitions of promotion or survival.
