Bristol City have confirmed that Josh Stokes has departed on loan to League One club Stockport County for the remainder of the season. The decision was made to allow Stokes to continue his development under manager Dave Challinor. Brian Tinnion told City's media team that this is a great opportunity for Josh to play regular minutes for a team battling for promotion as he continues to return from injury.

Josh Stokes has been linked with a temporary move away from Bristol City this month after Gerhard Struber revealed on New Year's Eve that the Robins had been 'in exchange' with clubs over the attacking midfielder. Social media speculation, as well as reports from local media, have suggested that the 21-year-old will likely spend the rest of the season in League One with Stockport County. The Reds boss did not directly name Dave Challinor's side, but he did admit that a move to Edgeley Park could be possible for Stokes. Regarding Stokes' potential temporary departure this winter, Struber said that he was 'really close' and that he would say he was 'maybe on a good way to a good loan deal.' When asked if such a deal would involve him joining Stockport, the head coach added that it 'could go in this direction.' The English player joined Bristol City in January 2024 and is under contract until June 2028. His current Transfermarkt market value is €250k.