Swindon Town are poised to finalize the signing of a highly coveted forward before the upcoming transfer deadline on Friday, with a deal for the player reportedly accepted.
The club, managed by Mark Kennedy, has struggled this season, failing to secure a win and being held to a goalless draw by Crewe Alexandra over the weekend. This follows a series of disappointing results, including defeats to Crawley Town in the EFL Cup and Walsall, and a solitary league goal to their name so far, putting them alongside Salford and Tranmere in the goal-scoring stakes, with Crewe Alexandra and Morecambe yet to score.
The lack of goals appears to be driving Swindon Town’s urgency to bolster their attacking options. The anticipated new signing is Peterborough United striker Kabongo Tshimanga, who is set to join on a season-long loan deal. As reported by journalist Charlie McLellan, Swindon Town have outpaced interest from two National League clubs that also sought Tshimanga’s services. However, Tshimanga was reportedly more inclined towards a move to Swindon rather than dropping to the fifth tier.
Tshimanga’s performance last season reflects a mixed bag. The 27-year-old began the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Fleetwood Town in League One, where he made 24 appearances and scored two goals. In January, he returned to Peterborough United but was quickly loaned out to Boreham Wood in the National League. There, under the management of Luke Garrard, Tshimanga found his scoring touch again, netting seven goals in 16 appearances. Despite his efforts, Boreham Wood could not avoid relegation, ending their season with a draw against Ebbsfleet United.
Tshimanga’s career has been a tale of contrasts: while he has struggled in League One, he has demonstrated a notable goal-scoring prowess in the National League. This move to League Two could prove pivotal for him. Given Swindon Town’s success with loan players such as Jake Young in the past, there is optimism that a fresh environment under Kennedy might help Tshimanga rediscover his form and make a significant impact in the EFL. The upcoming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this transfer will be the catalyst for Swindon’s turnaround in fortunes.
