Exclusive: Bolton Star Josh Dacres-Cogley Undergoing Stockport Medical After Deal Agreed

Bolton Wanderers right-back Josh Dacres-Cogley is on the verge of a transfer to League One rivals Stockport County after a deal was agreed between the clubs. The 29-year-old defender is currently undergoing a medical at Edgeley Park, with the move set to be finalized imminently, according to sources close to the negotiations[1][2].

Dacres-Cogley, who joined Bolton from Tranmere Rovers in 2023, has struggled for consistent game time this season under head coach Steven Schumacher. Despite featuring regularly earlier in the campaign, he has not started a League One match since November 29, overtaken by Cyrus Christie and Jordie Osei-Tutu at right-back[1]. He has made just 13 league appearances from a possible 25, prompting Bolton's decision to offload him as part of a squad overhaul this January transfer window[2].

Stockport, currently sitting fourth in League One and just three points ahead of Bolton in the promotion race, view Dacres-Cogley as a solid addition to their defense. The Greater Manchester club, managed ambitiously this season, believes his versatility as a right-back or wing-back—highlighted by his strong crossing and attacking contributions—fits perfectly into their system. He previously starred in League Two, proving his reliability at this level[1][5].

Bolton's squad refresh has already seen departures like Forrester and Adeboyejo, with question marks over John McAtee and Joel Randall. Schumacher has played down some exit rumors but appears willing to let Dacres-Cogley go, despite the risk of strengthening a direct rival in a tightly contested promotion battle[3][2]. Previous interest came from clubs including Lincoln City, Port Vale, Aberdeen, and Bristol Rovers, but Stockport have moved quickest to secure the deal[2].

A move to Stockport keeps Dacres-Cogley in the North West, avoiding relocation upheaval. If completed, it could provide the fine margins needed in League One's fierce top-six fight, potentially tipping Stockport toward Championship football[1][2].

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