Two potential bargain free transfers Grimsby Town could explore, featuring Fejiri Okenabirhie.

With the 2024/25 season already in progress, it’s far from an ideal scenario, and the former Gibraltar international is working diligently behind the scenes to address this, along with other pressing issues.

As the summer transfer window nears its end, the urgency to secure reinforcements grows, whether through loan signings or permanent deals. A wide array of free agents remains available, and here, we consider two players who might be on Artell’s radar as he seeks to complete the crucial final pieces of his Mariners’ puzzle.

It’s no secret that, with Rose and midfielder Curtis Thompson absent with knocks, strains, and fitness issues, a powerful, mobile striker is a necessity, as is a physically and technically competent engine room holding player.

While free agents can sign for clubs at any point after the window shuts, they’ll be acutely aware that many EFL sides will look to complete their squads by August 30th, and will therefore be looking to get themselves fixed up as soon as possible. The experienced duo highlighted below would be ideal to fulfill the aforementioned roles, should they be attainable financially.

Fejiri Okenabirhie

28-year-old forward Fejiri Okenabirhie is still without a club following his release from League One outfit Cambridge United earlier this summer.

Having been with Arsenal as a youngster, the London-born attacker joined Stevenage in 2013, before embarking on numerous non-league loan spells with the likes of Farnborough, Cambridge City, and Royston Town.

After impressing for Dagenham & Redbridge between 2016 and 2018, Okenabirhie got his chance in the Football League, firstly with Shrewsbury Town, and then on to Doncaster Rovers and Cambridge over the last five years.

Capable of operating in wide forward roles, which aligns well with Artell’s preferred 4-3-3 formation, Okenabirhie brings a strong physical presence and the pace to trouble defenders. He excels at running the channels and holding the ball under pressure, making him an ideal candidate to add depth and competition to Grimsby’s forward line.

Okenabirhie scored 19 goals in 69 appearances for Dagenham before finding the net 46 times in 172 games across stints with Shrewsbury, Doncaster, and Cambridge United, many of which were in League One. Given his impressive track record, it’s surprising that he’s still a free agent, but this is an opportunity that Artell and Grimsby could seize in the coming days and weeks.

Alex Rodríguez Gorrin

Seasoned Spanish defensive midfielder Alex Rodríguez Gorrín is well-known among EFL fans, having spent nearly five years with Oxford United before a short stint with relegated Forest Green Rovers at the end of last season.

Now 31, the former Sunderland prospect is a tough-tackling, committed player, typically positioned in front of the defense. Gorrín’s experience shines through in his composed handling of pressure and his comfort on the ball in all areas. He is as adept at initiating attacks for his team as he is at disrupting those of the opposition.

The Spaniard has also gained experience in New Zealand, Portugal, Romania, and Scotland, playing for clubs like Wellington Phoenix, Boavista, Sepsi, and Motherwell. The knowledge and expertise he’s accumulated throughout his diverse career would be invaluable to Artell’s squad, especially in the absence of regular midfield leader Thompson.

Whether these two players are on Grimsby’s radar remains uncertain, as does the financial capacity to bring in experienced players at this late stage of the transfer window. However, if the funds and mutual interest are there, Okenabirhie and Gorrín would be ideal signings for the Blundell Park club to help them meet their 2024/25 season goals.

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