Bristol City Face Uncertain January as Contract Issues Loom Ahead of Play-off Bid

Bristol City are preparing for a potentially tense January transfer window as several key first-team players approach the final months of their contracts, creating uncertainty at a crucial stage of the season. With Gerhard Struber’s side still firmly in the play-off conversation, the coming weeks could play a decisive role in shaping their campaign.

The Robins spent much of the autumn hovering around the Championship’s top six and will be hoping that January provides an opportunity to strengthen and build momentum. That ambition could be aided by a substantial financial windfall, particularly if former fan favourite Antoine Semenyo secures a big-money move away from Bournemouth.

However, while incoming funds may boost optimism, Bristol City must also navigate growing concerns over player retention, with multiple first-team regulars attracting interest as they edge closer to the end of their deals.

January window brings both opportunity and anxiety

The winter transfer period is often a time for calculated risk, and that will be especially true at Ashton Gate. Friday’s win in the West Midlands showcased the squad’s quality, but it also underlined the importance of players whose long-term futures remain unresolved. Both goalscorers from that victory are among those yet to commit beyond the current season, leaving the club vulnerable to January approaches.

With other Championship sides and ambitious lower-league clubs monitoring the situation, Bristol City could face bids that force difficult decisions — whether to cash in now or risk losing key contributors for nothing further down the line.

Mehmeti and Vyner key concerns as contracts near expiry

Bristol City currently have nine permanent players whose contracts are due to expire in the summer of 2026. Among them, two stand out as priorities for head coach Gerhard Struber ahead of the January window.

Attacking midfielder Anis Mehmeti is approaching the final six months of his current deal and remains one of the most influential figures in the squad. The Albanian international has been a constant presence in Struber’s starting XI, contributing seven goals and six assists during the first half of the campaign. His creativity and end product have been central to Bristol City’s attacking play, and replacing that output would be a major challenge should he depart.

Struber has previously described the 24-year-old as “outstanding”, highlighting just how highly he is valued within the club. Despite this, Mehmeti’s future has yet to be resolved, raising the prospect of outside interest intensifying as January approaches.

Defender Zak Vyner is another player whose situation is being closely monitored. A product of the club’s academy, Vyner has featured regularly this season and has also been deployed in midfield during periods of injury disruption. His versatility and leadership have made him a vital component of the squad.

The defender was reportedly the subject of a £2 million bid from Wrexham during the summer, and it would come as little surprise if similar interest resurfaces when the transfer window reopens.

Tough calls ahead for Struber and the club

Should substantial offers arrive for either Mehmeti or Vyner in January, Bristol City’s hierarchy will face a significant dilemma. Selling could provide immediate funds and reduce the risk of losing players for free next summer, but weakening the squad mid-season could damage their play-off ambitions.

Another player nearing the end of his deal is Ross McCrorie, who scored the decisive goal in Friday’s match. While his contract situation is less urgent due to a one-year extension option held by the club, it remains another factor to consider amid the broader uncertainty.

In addition, several other first-team players — including Mark Sykes, Max O’Leary, Lewis Thomas, Haydon Roberts, Harry Cornick and Ephraim Yeboah — are also set to see their contracts expire in 2026.

Club officials offer clarity amid financial boost

Struber addressed the contract situations of Mehmeti and Vyner back in November, making it clear that he wants to retain both players and keep the squad intact beyond the current season. He explained that discussions are ongoing, with the club currently in a “waiting position”.

Technical director Brian Tinnion later confirmed at a supporters’ forum that new contracts have been offered to both players, shortly after vice-captain Rob Dickie agreed an extension.

Off the pitch, Bristol City could soon receive a major boost to their transfer budget. The club stands to earn around £11 million if Bournemouth sell Antoine Semenyo for a reported £65 million, with Manchester City believed to be leading the chase. The Robins are understood to hold a 20 per cent sell-on clause, having sold the forward for £10 million in January 2023.

That potential injection of funds could prove crucial as Bristol City look to balance squad stability with ambition during a pivotal January window.