Jack Sparkes Set to Sign – Rovers’ Rebuild Sparks Into Life

Well, there it is Gasheads — the summer rebuild is officially off the mark. Bristol Rovers are close to completing a deal to sign left-back Jack Sparkes from Peterborough United, and you know what? This feels like a very tidy bit of business.

📝 A Smart Move with League One Know-How

Sparkes is just 24, but already boasts over 150 senior appearances, mainly for Exeter City where he came through the ranks. A Devon lad by birth, but now hopefully set to light up the left flank in blue and white.

At a time when we’re crying out for dependable full-backs — players who can do the dirty work defensively and get forward with purpose — Sparkes ticks a lot of boxes. Left-back has been a bit of a revolving door at the Mem in recent years, and if this is the man Darrell Clarke and the recruitment team have targeted, then it shows we're finally getting smart about shaping a balanced squad.

🔄 A Permanent Deal? Yes Please.

Even more encouraging: it’s believed to be a permanent move, not a loan. That means we’re not just plugging holes — we’re building something lasting. We’ve had too many short-term fixes over the past few seasons. Sparkes offers the chance to grow into the role, bring some consistency down the left, and become a real asset.

⚽ From Exeter to Posh... to the Gas

Sparkes made his name at Exeter, playing in big games and helping the Grecians up the divisions. His time at Peterborough might not have quite hit the same heights, but let’s be honest — how many players have gone to Posh and never quite found their rhythm? Sometimes all a player needs is the right club, the right fans, and the right system.

We’ve seen it before: a fresh start at the Mem can reignite a career. Just ask the likes of Luke Leahy or even Aaron Collins.

🔥 The First of Many?

If this is the first signing of the summer, it sets a positive tone. A good age, decent experience, and playing in a position we've needed to strengthen for ages. Hopefully, this is just the start — a signal that we're getting our business done early and with purpose.

The Darrell Clarke era 2.0 is starting to take shape. And with Sparkes potentially arriving as the first new face, the flame under our summer plans has officially been lit.

Welcome (almost) to the Mem, Jack. Let’s make it a season to remember.

Up The Gas! 💙⚽