Crusaders FC accept £120k bid for Fraser Bryden from Chesterfield
Crusaders FC have accepted a six-figure bid from League Two club Chesterfield for star striker Fraser Bryden. The 22-year-old scored 23 goals in 36 Premiership appearances last season, helping the Seaview outfit finish 11th in the Northern Ireland Premiership with 26 points from 33 games (7W-5D-21L).
What happened?
The North Belfast club confirmed they have given Chesterfield permission to open talks with Bryden, who has one year left on his contract. Sky Sports reports the fee agreed is £120,000 plus add-ons, with other clubs still interested in the striker. Bryden will now enter formal negotiations with the English fourth-tier side.
Why it matters for Crusaders FC
Bryden’s departure would be a significant loss for Crusaders FC, who finished 47 points behind league leaders Larne last season. The striker’s goals were crucial in helping the team avoid relegation, with their recent form showing three wins in their last five matches (LLWWW). Manager Declan Caddell has a policy of supporting players in career moves, stating he would push them toward better opportunities if they arise.
What comes next?
If Bryden joins Chesterfield, he could form a strike partnership with Northern Ireland international Lee Bonis, who scored 13 goals in League Two last season. Meanwhile, Crusaders FC will look to reinforce their squad ahead of the new campaign, having conceded 72 goals last season while scoring 38.
