Harrogate Town opt against offering trialist Bogdan Marian a contract as transfer bid is submitted for left-back

The 21-year-old Romanian defender fared well during his time with the National League Sulphurites, starting each of their final three pre-season friendlies.

Speaking after Saturday’s 2-1 friendly success over Scarborough Athletic, manager Simon Weaver praised the ex-Watford youngster for his efforts, and said that he had a “decision to make” regarding a permanent deal.

But, the Town boss has opted to move in a different direction and is hopeful of landing a more experienced left-sided option in time for this weekend’s 2026/27 curtain-raiser against Solihull Moors.

"Bogdan did well in the three games that he played for us,” Weaver told the Harrogate Advertiser.

"We had a good look at him and we did like him. But, the timing is just not right for us on this occasion, so we’ve decided against making him an offer.

“That position is however one that we still need to strengthen, and we are hoping to bring in a senior left-back in time for Saturday’s game against Solihull.

"We are in talks, but the player is contracted to another club, so we are in the process of trying to get everything agreed.

"I am hopeful that we will be able to get it all sorted by Thursday, so he can be available for selection at the weekend.”

Weaver went on to reveal that he is still weighing up whether to offer central midfielder Max Anderson terms following his own trial period at Wetherby Road.

The 25-year-old Scotsman boasts decent pedigree having played 28 times for Dundee in the Scottish Premiership before going on to make 39 League One appearances for Crawley during the 2024/25 season, then 20 in League Two last term.

A free agent since being released by the Sussex outfit earlier this summer, Anderson arrived at the Marcy Fitness Stadium via a trial spell with St Johnstone.