Graham Alexander set to make first summer signing as Bradford City add coveted defender to League One squad

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Bradford City are finally back in the third tier of English football, and EFL Analysis can exclusively reveal that Graham Alexander is about to bag his first signing of the summer.

The Bantams were among the three teams to win automatic promotion from League Two this season, and there are high hopes that the Yorkshire outfit can establish themselves in League One next term.

With a huge following and a rich footballing history, plenty of neutrals are keen to see Bradford City do well, and Graham Alexander has won plenty of plaudits for his team’s exciting, attacking football.

Now that Bradford’s celebrations are over, the serious business of assembling a squad capable of competing in League One begins for the manager.

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Bradford City to sign Curtis Tilt from Salford

Speaking exclusively to EFL Analysis, our transfer expert Graeme Bailey tells us Bradford are now on the verge of making their first addition to the squad this summer.

We understand the Bantams have won the race to sign Salford City defender, Curtis Tilt. The 33-year-old was the subject of interest from a number of clubs in League One and League Two ahead of the summer transfer window, but Bradford are set to secure his signature.

Tilt was a key figure for Salford this season, racking up 41 appearances in all competitions and serving as captain for the club.

The centre-half has now made the decision to move on after two years at the club.

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Bradford City could be League One’s surprise package

In many ways, Bradford City are the sleeping giant of League One now, and they’ll be desperate to continue their rise through the EFL.

Our early prediction for the 2025/26 League One campaign has Bradford pegged as a surprise package. Indeed, there’s no real reason why, with the right recruitment this summer, they can’t push for the play-offs.

Signing Curtis Tilt is a good start, especially in the wake of losing captain Richie Smallwood. However, Bradford will need a lot more quality if they are to thrive in the third tier.