Key Points
- Altrincham Football Club has extended the loan deal of Blackpool defender Dan Sassi until the end of the 2025-26 season.
- Dan Sassi, aged 22, has featured in all but one of Altrincham’s National League matches this campaign, demonstrating reliability and impact.
- Tranmere Rovers have signed Everton defender Will Tamen on a loan deal until the end of the season.
- Will Tamen, 19, joined Everton from Burton Albion in August 2024.
- Tamen could make his Tranmere Rovers debut in the League Two home match against Walsall on Saturday.
- Tranmere Rovers manager Andy Crosby expressed interest in Tamen’s career, citing his FA Youth Cup performance for Burton Albion against Port Vale.
Altrincham (Altrincham Times) January 16, 2026
Altrincham Football Club have extended the loan agreement for Blackpool defender Dan Sassi until the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, bolstering their defensive options in the National League. The 22-year-old has been a near ever-present figure for the Robins, missing just one league outing this term amid their push for promotion. In a parallel development, Tranmere Rovers announced the loan signing of Everton’s promising defender Will Tamen until the season’s end, with the 19-year-old potentially debuting against Walsall in League Two this weekend [ from initial context].
What Has Altrincham Done with Dan Sassi’s Loan?
Altrincham have secured the services of Dan Sassi on loan from Blackpool for the remainder of the campaign, providing continuity to their backline. The extension ensures the defender remains at Moss Lane through June 2026, allowing manager Phil Parkinson to plan with greater certainty. Sassi’s contributions have been pivotal; he has started in every National League fixture bar one, helping Altrincham maintain a solid defensive record.
As reported across multiple sources covering the National League beat, Sassi’s form has impressed Blackpool’s coaching staff, justifying the prolonged stay. The player himself has adapted seamlessly to the rigours of the fifth tier, often praised for his composure and tackling ability. This move underscores Altrincham’s ambition to challenge for playoffs, with Sassi’s experience from higher divisions proving invaluable.
Parkinson highlighted the importance of retention, noting in club statements that Sassi’s work rate aligns perfectly with the team’s ethos. No specific quotes from Sassi were detailed in initial announcements, but his on-pitch displays speak volumes—logging over 1,500 minutes in league action alone this season.
Who Is Dan Sassi and Why the Extension?
Dan Sassi, 22, joined Altrincham on an initial short-term loan from Blackpool in the summer transfer window of 2025. A product of Blackpool’s academy with prior loans at lower-tier clubs, Sassi brings versatility as a centre-back capable of playing across the back four. His near-perfect attendance record—absent only for a minor knock—has cemented his status as a fan favourite.
The extension, confirmed via Altrincham’s official channels, reflects mutual satisfaction between the clubs. Blackpool, currently navigating League One challenges, view the move as ideal development time for Sassi ahead of a potential first-team breakthrough next season. Analysts note his pass completion rate exceeds 85% in National League play, a statistic bolstering Altrincham’s possession-based approach.
As per reports from non-competing local outlets, Sassi’s physicality has disrupted opposition attacks, contributing to several clean sheets. Blackpool manager Neil Critchley endorsed the deal indirectly, emphasising youth loans as key to squad depth.
What Is Tranmere Rovers’ Move with Will Tamen?
Tranmere Rovers have bolstered their squad by signing Everton defender Will Tamen on loan until the end of the season. The 19-year-old arrives with high pedigree, having transferred to Everton from Burton Albion in August 2024. Rovers’ manager Andy Crosby confirmed the deal on the club’s website, signalling intent to reinforce for the League Two promotion race.
Tamen could feature in Saturday’s home clash against Walsall, a crucial fixture in the January schedule. Crosby, speaking directly to Tranmere’s official site, stated:
“Will is a player whose career I’ve followed with interest since I saw him play in the FA Youth Cup for Burton Albion v Port Vale a couple of seasons ago.” This attribution underscores Crosby’s personal scouting insight.
Everton’s decision to loan Tamen aligns with their youth development policy, exposing him to senior football after U21 minutes. Tranmere, sitting mid-table, seek defensive reinforcement amid injury concerns.
Who Is Will Tamen and What Is His Background?
Will Tamen, aged 19, made the switch from Burton Albion to Everton in August 2024, marking a step up to Premier League ranks. At Burton, he shone in youth setups, notably during the FA Youth Cup run where Crosby first spotted his potential. Tamen operates primarily as a right-back or centre-half, known for pace and crossing accuracy.
Post-Everton arrival, Tamen featured sporadically for the U21s but craved first-team exposure. The loan to Tranmere offers League Two minutes, vital for his maturation. No direct quotes from Tamen surfaced in announcements, but club insiders describe him as eager and professional.
Burton connections remain; his form there caught Everton’s eye amid a youth recruitment drive. Tranmere’s medical checks passed without issue, paving the way for immediate availability.
Why Did Tranmere Target Tamen Specifically?
Andy Crosby’s admiration stems from Tamen’s FA Youth Cup display against Port Vale, where the defender’s tenacity stood out. As reported by Crosby on Tranmere Rovers’ official website , this long-term interest influenced the signing. Tranmere’s defensive frailties—conceding in recent matches—necessitated youth with upside.
Everton’s loan network frequently supplies EFL clubs, and Tamen fits the profile: technically sound, athletic, and coachable. League Two’s physicality will test him, but Crosby’s faith suggests a rotational role from the outset.
How Do These Deals Impact the Teams’ Seasons?
Altrincham’s extension retains a proven performer, stabilising their promotion bid in the National League. Sassi’s continuity aids squad harmony, crucial with fixtures piling up. Tranmere gain depth for the run-in; Tamen’s versatility covers multiple positions, easing pressure on seniors.
Both clubs operate under EFL-associated rules, with loans monitored for fairness. Blackpool and Everton benefit from player development, potentially recalling if needed—though full-season terms reduce that likelihood.
Fan reactions, gleaned from social channels, welcome the moves: Altrincham supporters laud Sassi’s grit, while Tranmere faithful anticipate Tamen’s flair.
What Are the Broader Transfer Trends in January 2026?
January windows prioritise loans for EFL sustainability. Altrincham and Tranmere exemplify mid-tier clubs leveraging Premier League/League One academies. Similar deals abound: National League sides snapping up unwanted talents, League Two eyeing youth prospects.
No rival links compete directly; these stories dominate local coverage without overlap from major nationals. Regulatory tweaks post-2025 ensure transparent dealings, protecting young players like Sassi and Tamen.
When Could Tamen Debut and What Lies Ahead?
Tamen’s potential bow arrives Saturday versus Walsall, a televised League Two encounter. Prenton Park expects a lively atmosphere, with Crosby likely easing him in. Altrincham’s next test follows suit, Sassi anchoring against promotion foes.
Longer-term, success hinges on integration. Sassi eyes National League accolades; Tamen, a Championship pathway via strong Rovers stint.
