Bradford City Trio Linked With Departures Amid Squad Transition
Bradford — University of Bradford Stadium
As Bradford City continue their 2025/26 League One campaign, attention is turning to several players whose futures at the club may be limited. With new signings strengthening the squad and several contracts due to expire at the end of the season, three current Bantams — Brad Halliday, Neill Byrne and Andy Cook — are increasingly being linked with exits when their deals run down.
1. Brad Halliday — Out of Contract, Limited Game Time
Right-back Brad Halliday remains part of the Bradford City squad this season, but is yet to make a League One appearance as younger and new defensive options have been preferred. Halliday’s contract is set to expire at the end of the 2025/26 season, and sources close to the club suggest he is likely to leave when his deal ends rather than sign a renewal.
“With strong competition for places and his contract running down, it makes sense that Halliday will explore fresh opportunities in the summer.”
2. Neill Byrne — Defender Facing Contract Uncertainty
Centre-back Neill Byrne is another key squad member whose future looks uncertain. Byrne’s contract situation means he will also be out of contract at the end of the season, and while he continues to feature in the Bradford defence, the club’s recruitment focus and younger alternatives have led to speculation that he may move on once free.
A league source commented:
“Byrne has done a solid job, but the club’s strategy is shifting — and that could see him pursue a new challenge after this term.”
3. Andy Cook — Veteran Striker’s Future in Question
Experienced striker Andy Cook remains on the Bradford City books this season but has battled injury and has yet to make a League One appearance after suffering an ACL injury that cut short his 2024/25 campaign. With his contract also expiring at the end of this season and Bradford seeking fresh attacking options, insiders believe Cook may leave when his deal expires rather than stay on.
Club Context: Promotion and Squad Refresh
Bradford City enjoyed a strong promotion from League Two in the 2024/25 season, but the jump to League One has brought significant squad changes: new defenders, midfield reinforcements and attacking additions have all arrived for the 2025/26 campaign.
These shifts have inevitably created competition for places, prompting speculation that several long-serving or out-of-contract players will move on at the end of the season rather than renew amid evolving club plans.
What This Means for Fans at Valley Parade
Supporters at University of Bradford Stadium have seen dramatic progress this season from the Bantams— but with key contracts expiring, the summer could bring further turnover. Halliday, Byrne and Cook have each been valuable in their own ways, yet all three face uncertain futures as Bradford aim to consolidate their League One status and build toward future promotion ambitions.
Stay tuned for official announcements as the season concludes and contract decisions are finalised.
