Bristol Rovers defender increasingly likely to leave Gas with agreement yet to be reached

James Wilson was one of just six outfield players in the EFL to play every minute last season

Daniel Hargraves Bristol Rovers reporter

16:00, 19 Jun 2025

James Wilson pictured in action for Bristol Rovers(Image: Pete Norton/Getty Images)

James Wilson is looking increasingly likely to leave Bristol Rovers when his contract expires at the end of this month, Bristol Live understands, with the two parties yet to come to an agreement over a new deal.

Following a report from Football Insider, Wilson still hasn’t signed a contract extension and is close to becoming a free agent if an agreement cannot be reached before his current deal expires on June 30.

Rovers released nine players following the conclusion of last season, including club captain Scott Sinclair and experienced duo Grant Ward and Jack Hunt amongst others. Chris Martin’s current deal will also expire but the striker is set to complete his rehab for a knee injury with the Gas before a decision is made on his future.

READ MORE: Bristol Rovers close to first summer signing as Gas close in on deal for Peterborough left-back

It was confirmed that the club had exercised an option of a one-year extension in Wilson’s contract, which is also up this summer. However, talks regarding a new deal have seemingly stalled.

The experienced centre-back was one of just six outfield players in the entire EFL to play every single minute for their club last season as the 36-year-old demonstrated outstanding durability.

Although regular defensive partner Connor Taylor was named the Pirates’ player of the season, Wilson was a frequent performer despite the club’s relegation to League Two.

The defender joined Rovers in the summer of 2023 on a free transfer after playing an important role in Plymouth Argyle’s League One title win in the 2022/23 campaign. Niggling injuries held him up from holding down a consistent starting place before overcoming those issues ahead of the following season. Wilson has made a total of 80 appearances for the Pirates over two years in north Bristol.

If a contract cannot be agreed in time and the centre-back does leave Rovers, it would leave Taylor, Taylor Moore, Dan Ellison and Clinton Mola as the Gas’ current options.

Darrell Clarke’s players are due back at The Quarters on Monday for the start of pre-season ahead of the upcoming League Two campaign.

READ MORE: Bristol Rovers appoint ex-Barnsley and Coventry City coaches to Darrell Clarke’s coaching staff