Exeter City manager Matt Taylor admits his side needs six more signings but may not secure them all. The Grecians drew 1-1 with Bristol City in a pre-season friendly, with trialists Ali Koiki and Finn Tonks in action. Bristol City finished 12th in the Championship last season with 62 points, 17 wins, 11 draws, and 18 losses, scoring 59 goals and conceding 59.
What did Taylor say about transfers?
Taylor confirmed Exeter City are close to signing a couple of players but acknowledged they won’t reach their target of six. He said, "We feel we're close to a couple of players. I know we need six, but we won't get anywhere near that." The departures of six out-of-contract players, six loanees, and Johnly Yfeko have left the squad thinner than last season.
Who are the trialists?
The two trialists who played against Bristol City are believed to be Ali Koiki and Finn Tonks. Koiki, 26, is a former Bristol Rovers and Northampton Town left-sided player who has been without a club since 2025. Tonks, 21, is a right-sided player who came through Bournemouth’s youth academy but has never played for the first team.
What positions need strengthening?
Exeter City need reinforcements in defense, with only three fit natural center-backs. They also require wide players, particularly wing-backs, and possibly another midfielder and attacker. Taylor emphasized the need for players to move out before new arrivals can be made.
What’s next for Bristol City?
Bristol City’s next fixture is away against Burnley on September 5, 2026. The Robins finished 33 points behind leaders Coventry last season and will look to improve in the upcoming campaign.
