Exclusive: Huddersfield in advanced talks to sign Lynden Gooch after Stoke exit
Huddersfield Town are in advanced talks to sign former Sunderland and Stoke wing-back Lynden Gooch on a free transfer, sources have told Football Insider.
The 29-year-old was at Huddersfield’s training ground today for talks over a move to the League One outfit.
Gooch is a free agent after leaving Stoke upon the expiration of his contract earlier this summer.
Huddersfield overhauling Lee Grant’s squad
Lee Grant took over at Kirklees Stadium at the end of May and the Terriers have wasted no time bringing in several new faces in via the transfer market.
Ryan Ledson has joined following a seven-year stint with Preston, whilst Marcus Harness has joined from Ipswich, where his new boss was a coach before his move to the League One side.
Meanwhile, Huddersfield fended off interest from Championship sides to secure Joe Low’s signing from Wycombe Wanderers.
And of course, given Grant’s history as a goalkeeper during his playing career, it came as no surprise to see Owen Goodman arrive on loan from Crystal Palace.
The new signings add much-needed depth after 10 players departed this summer, including captain Jonathan Hogg.
Lynden Gooch adds much-needed experience
With so many players coming in and out of Kirklees’ doors, the potential addition of Gooch would add not only depth but also versatility to Grant’s squad.
The USA international is equally comfortable at both left wing-back and left-wing, offering his new boss the ability to play either three or four-at-the-back systems.
Interestingly, given that the Huddersfield role is Grant’s first as a first-team coach, those outside the club will have to wait and see what sort of tactical set-up the coach chooses to employ.
The approach for the former Sunderland man may be motivated by that fact, as his versatility may be a bonus for his new boss as he finds his feet in the managerial world.
Whilst Gooch is several years removed from his prime, the wing-back will bring Championship quality to a team that has struggled immensely in recent years.
Huddersfield sputtered to a 10th-place finish in League One next season, but will have aspirations of a return to England’s second tier after their relegation in the 2023/24 season.