Rovers have been linked with a move for free agent goalkeeper Ben Garratt.

The ‘keeper has been without a club since ending his 18-year association with Crewe Alexandra in the summer.

Garratt has 246 league appearances to his name and played against Rovers in a pre-season friendly for Bury where he has been training this summer.

However, the Shakers’ expulsion from the EFL this week has ended any hopes of a earning a deal at Gigg Lane.

Rovers’ goalkeeping ranks have undergone a host of changes this summer with David Raya, undisputed No.1 for the last two seasons, having been sold to Brentford.

Christian Walton arrived on a season-long loan deal from Brighton and has started all five Championship matches, with Jayson Leutwiler having started the two Carabao Cup matches.

Andrew Fisher was last week loaned to League Two side Northampton Town, with Joe Hilton having been brought in from Everton as the Under-23s goalkeeper.

Rovers were in the market for another goalkeeper before the window closed earlier this month, but still allowed Fisher to move out on loan to further his experience.

However, that leaves Rovers with just two senior options and are thought to be exploring the free agent market as a possible stop-gap while Fisher is with the League Two Cobblers.

Goalkeeping coach Ben Benson is said to be running the role over Garratt before weighing up the possibility of him earning a contract with the club.

The Market Drayton-born stopper was highly rated when coming through the ranks at Gresty Road and had been tipped for a bright future, but despite interest, a move to the higher divisions never materialised as the Alex slipped in to League Two.