Ayr Utd-linked striker Fraser Bryden nears £120k Chesterfield move
Crusaders striker Fraser Bryden, who previously played for Ayr Utd, is set to undergo a medical at Chesterfield on Monday ahead of a £120,000 move to the League Two club. The 22-year-old Scottish forward scored 23 goals in 36 Premiership appearances last season and helped Crusaders avoid relegation.
What happened?
Bryden joined Crusaders from Ayr Utd last summer after a loan spell at Queen of the South. His impressive goal tally attracted interest from clubs in England and the League of Ireland, but Chesterfield have won the race. The deal includes potential add-ons for Crusaders, who signed Bryden on a two-year contract.
Why it matters for Ayr Utd
Ayr Utd, who finished 7th in the Scottish Championship last season with 39 points (8W-15D-13L), may have missed out on re-signing Bryden. The Honest Men ended the 2025 campaign with a five-match losing streak (LLLLL) and a 0-1 defeat to ST Johnstone on May 1, 2026. Bryden’s departure could impact Crusaders’ preparations for the new season.
What comes next?
Bryden will travel to England on Sunday to complete his medical and finalise the transfer. He will form a strike partnership with ex-Irish League star Lee Bonis at Chesterfield. Meanwhile, Ayr Utd will focus on strengthening their squad ahead of the new season, having scored 38 goals and conceded 47 last term.
