Bolton Wanderers have agreed a transfer fee with MK Dons for their prolific striker Aaron Collins, signaling a surprising move for the 28-year-old forward from League One to League Two. This deal, nearing completion as of mid-June 2025, marks a significant moment for both clubs and the player, as Collins has been a key figure for Bolton since his arrival in January 2024. The Welsh forward, who joined Bolton Wanderers from Bristol Rovers for a reported £750,000, has impressed with his goal-scoring prowess, netting 28 goals in 44 appearances for the Trotters. Despite his success and status as Bolton’s top scorer last season, Collins is set to drop a division, joining MK Dons, who finished 19th in League Two last term but are aiming for a promotion push under manager Paul Warne.
The Transfer Details and Context
According to multiple sources, including Football League World and The Bolton News, MK Dons have agreed a fee with Bolton Wanderers for Aaron Collins, with final details expected to be wrapped up imminently. This agreement comes amid interest from League One clubs Cardiff City and Huddersfield Town, making Collins’ decision to drop to League Two all the more unexpected. MK Dons have been active in the transfer market, recently signing players such as Rushian Hepburn-Murphy from Crawley Town and Nathaniel Mendez-Laing from Derby County. The acquisition of Collins is viewed as a statement of intent from the Dons, who are keen to climb the League Two table and secure promotion.
Why the Drop to League Two?
Aaron Collins’ move to MK Dons is notable given his status as Bolton’s leading scorer, and many would have expected him to remain in League One or move to a higher division. However, the forward appears to see potential in the project at Stadium MK under Paul Warne’s management. In a season where Bolton Wanderers finished 8th in League One, Collins scored 19 goals in 55 games, including 12 in the league, making him a vital player for manager Steven Schumacher. His decision to join MK Dons, a club that finished in the lower half of League Two last season, suggests a belief in the club’s ambition and his role as a key figure in their promotion bid. Collins’ previous experience in League Two is extensive, having played 187 games in the division across his career, including productive spells with Forest Green Rovers and Bristol Rovers. Over his last two years in League Two, he contributed 34 goal involvements, demonstrating his ability to influence games at that level.
Aaron Collins: Player Profile and Career Trajectory
Born in May 1997, Aaron Collins is a versatile forward known for his goal-scoring and creative abilities. Standing 185cm tall and primarily right-footed, Collins has been deployed in various attacking roles including inside forward, mobile striker, and advanced playmaker. His adaptability has made him a valuable asset for his teams. Before joining Bolton Wanderers, Collins made his mark at Bristol Rovers, where he scored 15 goals and provided 12 assists in League One during the 2022-23 season. His performances attracted interest from clubs including Portsmouth, who had pursued him in 2022 before he signed a new contract with Bristol Rovers. Collins’ move to Bolton in January 2024 was a significant step up, and he quickly became a fan favourite with his consistent scoring. His 28 goals in 44 appearances reflect his importance to the Trotters’ attacking play, making his transfer to MK Dons a surprising but potentially strategic career choice.
Statements from Clubs and Management
While official statements from Bolton Wanderers and MK Dons have been limited as the deal nears completion, the transfer has been welcomed by MK Dons fans and management as a coup for the club. Paul Warne, MK Dons’ manager, has been building a squad capable of challenging for promotion, and the signing of Collins fits with his vision. The club’s recent activity in the transfer market signals an ambitious approach to the upcoming season. From Bolton’s perspective, the transfer represents a pivotal moment in their squad rebuild following a disappointing campaign. Manager Steven Schumacher has already made early moves to strengthen the squad, signing players like Sam Dalby, Xavier Simons, and Richard Taylor. The departure of Collins, while surprising, may be part of a broader strategy to reshape the team.
The Impact on Bolton Wanderers and MK Dons
For Bolton Wanderers, losing their top scorer will be a challenge as they aim to push back toward the top end of League One. Collins’ goals were crucial in keeping the club competitive, and replacing his output will be a key focus for the management. MK Dons, on the other hand, have secured a proven goal scorer who could be instrumental in their promotion ambitions. After finishing 19th in League Two last season, the club is eager to improve, and Collins’ experience and goal-scoring record could provide the cutting edge needed. The transfer also highlights the fluid nature of player movement in the lower leagues of English football, where ambition, project potential, and managerial influence can sway players’ decisions beyond simple league hierarchy.
Fan and Media Reaction
The news of Collins’ impending move has sparked varied reactions among fans and media. Bolton supporters expressed surprise at the forward’s decision to drop a division, given his importance to the team and his goal-scoring form. MK Dons fans, meanwhile, have welcomed the potential signing enthusiastically, viewing Collins as a player who can significantly boost their attacking options and help the club challenge for promotion. Media coverage has highlighted the transfer as one of the more eye-catching moves of the summer transfer window, reflecting both Collins’ quality and the ambition of MK Dons.
A Transfer That Raises Questions and Expectations
The agreement between Bolton Wanderers and MK Dons for Aaron Collins is a significant development in the 2025 summer transfer window. It represents a bold move by Collins, who opts to join a club in a lower division despite interest from higher-tier teams. For Bolton, the transfer signals a period of transition and squad rebuilding. For MK Dons, it is a statement of intent and a potential turning point in their quest for promotion. As the deal nears completion, all eyes will be on Stadium MK to see how Collins adapts and whether he can replicate his goal-scoring form to help the Dons climb the League Two table.