Doncaster Rovers have beaten Notts County to the signing of Aston Villa midfielder Tommi O'Reilly on a season-long loan. The 22-year-old's move to Meadow Lane, which had been reported as agreed, ultimately fell through according to Football Lowdown.
Who is Tommi O'Reilly?
Tommi O'Reilly is a 22-year-old attacking midfielder from Aston Villa's academy. He enjoyed a breakthrough campaign on loan at Crewe Alexandra last season. O'Reilly scored seven goals and provided twelve assists for the Railwaymen, performances that earned him Crewe Alexandra's Player of the Season award. The club finished 11th in their division. He previously had a loan spell with MK Dons and featured for Villa's under-21s in the EFL Trophy last week, scoring in a 3-2 defeat to Wigan Athletic.
How did the transfer battle unfold?
The pursuit of O'Reilly involved several clubs this summer. Last month, Sheffield Wednesday were considered front runners for his signature as they prepared for life in League One. Journalist Jacob Tanswell reported that Wednesday opted against a move after talks. This opened the door for Notts County. Journalist Alan Nixon then claimed a deal had been agreed for a season-long loan to Meadow Lane. However, with no follow-up announcement from either Villa or Notts County, speculation grew that the deal had collapsed. Pete O'Rourke subsequently reported that Doncaster Rovers had won the battle, agreeing to a season-long loan for the player.
What does this mean for Notts County?
Missing out on O'Reilly is a setback for Notts County's recruitment plans. The division newcomers had a clear opportunity to add a creative midfielder with proven League Two pedigree. Instead, he joins a direct rival. Notts County currently sit 15th in League One with two points from their opening two games, following a draw and a loss. They have scored three goals and conceded three, leaving them with a zero goal difference. They are four points behind early leaders Bradford City. Striker A. Jatta is the team's top scorer this season with 15 goals in 32 appearances, a record fans can track on our stats page.
Where does O'Reilly fit at Doncaster?
O'Reilly becomes the tenth new arrival at the Eco-Power Stadium this summer and the fourth temporary signing. Manager Grant McCann is bolstering his squad after a mixed start to the campaign. Doncaster picked up one point from their opening two league games, losing 2-1 to Mansfield Town before a 0-0 draw with Barnsley. They did progress to the Carabao Cup second round by beating Stockport County on penalties. High-profile signing Alfie May, the 33-year-old striker who rejoined on loan from League One rivals Huddersfield Town in June, will be a key attacking outlet. O'Reilly's creativity is intended to supply players like May. Doncaster host Championship side Middlesbrough in the cup next and face Stevenage in the league on Saturday, a fixture listed on our fixtures page.
What's next for Notts County?
The focus for Notts County now turns to identifying alternative targets to strengthen their midfield. With the transfer window still open, the recruitment team must act to address the gap in their squad. The current league standings show the team needs to find consistency quickly. Their next matches will be critical in establishing their position in League One. Building a competitive squad capable of climbing the table remains the immediate priority for the Magpies.
