Lincoln City has officially kicked off their summer transfer window by securing the experienced centre-back Sonny Bradley on a two-year contract. The 33-year-old defender, released by Championship side Derby County at the end of the 2024-25 season, is set to bring a wealth of experience and leadership to Michael Skubala's squad as the club aims to close the 17-point gap that left them 11th in League One last season.
Bradley's arrival comes at a crucial time for the Imps, who have seen significant departures in their defensive ranks, most notably captain Paudie O'Connor, who joined fellow League One rivals Reading after declining a new contract. Alongside O'Connor, Sean Roughan also left for Huddersfield Town, leaving Lincoln City in need of reinforcing their backline to mount a serious play-off challenge next season.
Bradley's career spans 15 years and nine clubs, beginning with Hull City in 2010. Early loan spells at Aldershot Town helped him adapt to senior football, and he later enjoyed successful stints at Portsmouth and Crawley Town. At Plymouth Argyle, he developed a reputation as a commanding presence, netting 11 goals in 96 appearances. However, it was at Luton Town where Bradley truly made his mark, captaining the side to multiple promotions and establishing himself as a stalwart in the Championship with 176 appearances over four years.
In 2023, Bradley moved to Derby County, where he played a pivotal role in their League One promotion campaign, featuring in 33 matches during the 2023-24 season. Despite a strong start to the 2024-25 season, including nine starts in eleven games and two goals in April, his opportunities in the Championship were limited to just 300 minutes. This led to a loan move to Wycombe Wanderers in January 2025, where he made 21 appearances and helped the Chairboys reach the League One play-offs, ultimately falling short in the semi-finals against Charlton Athletic.
Lincoln City manager Michael Skubala has been active in the transfer market to address the defensive void left by O'Connor and Roughan. Bradley's signing is seen as a strategic move to add leadership and experience to a squad that also includes seasoned defenders Tendayi Darikwa, with over 350 EFL appearances, and Adam Jackson, who has amassed 210 appearances. This blend of experience is expected to guide younger players and stabilize the team's defensive efforts.
Bradley will reunite with familiar faces at Lincoln City, including former Luton and Derby teammate James Collins and assistant coach Chris Cohen, both of whom played a part in convincing him to join the Imps. Speaking to BBC Radio Lincolnshire, Bradley said, "It was a straightforward decision after speaking to people I already know at the club. A couple of quick conversations with James Collins, Chris Cohen, and the manager as well, and I was happy and in for a medical. When I do follow James about, it only brings success. It did at Luton and did at Derby so hopefully we can do the same here. I'm just looking forward to getting started now."
Lincoln City's summer activity has been relatively quiet aside from Bradley's signing and the recent professional contract awarded to 17-year-old winger Zane Okoro. However, with key players like Ethan Erhahon expected to attract interest, the club is anticipated to be busy in the coming weeks as they look to strengthen across the pitch.
The Imps finished the 2024-25 League One season in 11th place, four spots lower than the previous year, and 17 points adrift of the play-off positions. The challenge for Skubala and his squad will be to improve consistency, particularly in defense, to mount a credible push for promotion.
Fans on the 100% Imps forum have welcomed Bradley's arrival enthusiastically. One supporter, Ruskingtony, noted, "If true it looks like we are looking to continue adding experience to the squad as well as continuing with our project players. Darikwa arrived at the start of last season and Collins in January both in their thirties but still proved to be two of our better players last season and obvious ‘leaders’ on the pitch." Another fan, Rasenimp, commented, "Bradley obviously a great signing I think. Proper head it and kick it centre back." Meanwhile, bristolimp added, "We need a blend. When we signed Shackle as similar signing it worked out well." These sentiments underscore the hope that Bradley's presence will bolster Lincoln's defensive resilience and leadership on the field.
Looking ahead, Bradley's experience and leadership qualities will be vital as Lincoln City seek to navigate a competitive League One season. His familiarity with the division and history of promotion success could prove invaluable in guiding the Imps back towards the play-offs and beyond.
As the summer transfer window progresses, Lincoln City will be keen to build on this positive start by reinforcing other areas of the squad to support their ambitions. With a blend of youthful talent and seasoned professionals, the Imps appear poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming campaign.
