Luton Town in advanced talks to recruit ex-Brentford player | OneFootball

Shandon Baptiste could be closing in on a move to Kenilworth Road, following the end of his time with the Bees.

Luton Town are in talks to recruit free agent midfielder Shandon Baptiste, according to TEAMtalk.

The Hatters are hoping to have a squad that's strong enough to compete for promotion back to the Premier League when next season starts, with a strong start potentially set to play a key role in who makes it to the top flight and who remains in the Championship.

Potential promotion rivals Burnley already have several first-team options at their disposal, despite the departures of Jack Cork, Johann Berg Gudmundsson and Charlie Taylor.

With the strength of the Clarets' squad in mind, as well as the strength of some other teams in the second tier, Rob Edwards' side will face a considerable challenge in their likely quest to secure a quick top-flight return.

Luton also have a strong squad though, with the Hatters having three gifted goalkeeping options at present, as well as some solid defence options and some excellent attacking players.

With the attacking firepower they have, Edwards' side could enjoy a very successful 2024/25 season, although there may be some additions that they need to make before the summer transfer window closes, with a number of senior players leaving Kenilworth Road in the past week or two.

Luton Town target Shandon Baptiste move

With Ross Barkley and Luke Berry two players that have left the club, improving their central midfield area may be on Edwards' agenda for the summer.

The likes of Allan Campbell, Jordan Clark, Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu and Marvelous Nakamba may all be able to operate in the middle of the park, but it's unclear whether all of these options will stay put in Bedfordshire in the coming weeks.

With this potentially in mind, Luton are reportedly in advanced discussions to sign midfielder Baptiste, who is available on a free transfer after being released by Brentford.

The player failed to assert himself as a key player for the Bees and after his spell in the English capital, he may be keen to secure more regular first-team football, something that could be available in Bedfordshire.

Shandon Baptiste could be a good signing for Luton Town

Baptiste won't be a replacement for Barkley, with the latter contributing far more in the final third than the former will be able to.

However, the midfield area is still one that may need to be addressed, with Barkley and Berry both departing the club.

Albert Sambi Lokonga has also left the club following the end of his loan spell at Kenilworth Road, so bringing in a player of Baptiste's calibre on a free transfer would be a very wise move.

A move for Baptiste could also allow some of their youngsters to go out on loan, including the promising Zack Nelson.

This move seems like a no-brainer for these reasons, with the ex-Brentford man likely to be a valuable addition.