Cheltenham Town sign Levi Laing from West Ham on loan as striker Ryan Bowman joins

Cheltenham Town have announced the signing of 21-year-old defender Levi Laing from West Ham United on a season-long loan.

Laing’s arrival coincides with the signing of experienced striker Ryan Bowman, as manager Michael Flynn continues to strengthen the squad for the upcoming season.

Laing, who previously played for Brentford and Arsenal's academies, joined West Ham in early 2021.

He has since become a key player for their U21 team, nearing 50 appearances in Premier League 2. In March 2023, Laing made his professional debut, stepping in for Kurt Zouma during a Europa Conference League match against AEK Larnaca.

Joining Laing is 32-year-old striker Ryan Bowman, who has signed a one-year deal after leaving Shrewsbury Town.

During his three-year stint in Shropshire, Bowman netted 22 goals in all competitions. He has previously played for York City, Motherwell, and Exeter City.

Bowman, who has over 150 career goals, made an immediate impact last season, scoring the winner against Cheltenham on the opening day. He now aims to bolster the Robins' attack.

Both Laing and Bowman featured in the second half of Cheltenham's 3-0 defeat to Bristol City on Friday evening, where Irish internationals Sinclair Armstrong and Mark Sykes scored for the opposition.