2 players that could save Bradford City six figures in transfer fees | OneFootball

Bradford City could turn to two talented youngsters already at the club to fill first-team positions next season, saving the club in transfer fees.

Highlights

Usually, when a talented young footballer is on the books at Bradford City, a big club from the top division swoops in and takes them way before they can kick a ball for the first team.

In recent times, the Bantams have seen several players leave the club at a young age, including the likes of Sahil Bashir (Brighton), Alfie Bradshaw (Nottingham Forest), Darryl Ombang (Leeds United), Alvin Ayman (Wolves) and Max Ruddock (Wolves).

Although these players are yet to break into the first team at their clubs, there is hope for a couple of current Bradford first-year pros who will be hoping that next season will be their breakout season where they can showcase their talents, much like Bobby Pointon, who has gone from strength to strength since stepping up into the first team at Valley Parade.

Let’s take a closer look at how these two talented footballers could save the club in transfer fees by breaking into the first-team fold next season.

Zac Hadi

Zac Hadi is a name which some Bradford supporters may be familiar with, as the towering goalkeeper has been used by manager Graham Alexander to help during warm-ups on matchdays before games start, which has allowed fans who turn up early to the turnstiles to get a glimpse of the talented goalkeeper and his ability between the sticks.

There is no doubt that next season will see Sam Walker retain his status as the club’s number-one goalkeeper after impressing since joining the club during the January transfer window last season.

Moving into next season, Hadi will surely be the second choice, with only Hadi, Walker and goalkeeper coach Colin Doyle as the goalkeepers currently on the books. He could even feature in competitions such as the EFL Trophy, giving the youngster much-needed game-time in men’s football.

With the club trusting the current three keepers on the books, this will surely save the Bantams in transfer fees and wages by putting their trust in the 18-year-old goalkeeper.

Harry Ibbitson

Harry Ibbitson is probably the most well-known name among the fanbase when it comes to youth team players who could step up to the first team.

The talented 18-year-old striker, who has recently attracted interest from clubs higher up the EFL ladder according to reporter Alan Nixon on Patreon, scored 31 goals in all competitions at U18 and U19 level last season and even won the Neil Matthews Academy Player of the Year award last season.

Although the current squad has many attacking options, players such as Vadaine Oliver and Tyler Smith could leave the club this summer as they search for more first-team opportunities.

Additionally, should Jake Young struggle again next season with injuries, Ibbitson could be among the first three choices for the club's starting striker position with one up front, or could even have a more likely chance of seeing game time should manager Alexander decide to start with a front two.

There is no doubt that supporters want to see what Ibbitson can offer next season, and the club could save on transfer fees by relying on the young goalscorer as a striking option.