My analysis for what it is worth as a remote supporter:
Keepers: Howard – done well since he came in BUT is injury prone. Also end of contract. May be let go but depends on:
Willis – is he ready to play yet?
Long – he’ll stays unless a good offer comes in (it may)
If we lose either Howard or Long we need an experienced backup of the Ian Bennett type (but not him)
Defence
Right Back: the Beard I cannot see returning. Doubtful we could afford his wages on a buy and Cardiff could use him when they go down. Season long loan with a purchase option might work.
Freeman – probably be bought, provides solid backup on both sides
Centre Half: Harry will move on I’m sure. Don’t want him to but it might be the right time for his career.
Collins – up and down but has the right experience if playing with:
Kennedy – did well when he came in, needs to be developed alongside an experienced player and likely needs a bit more strength
Hill – contract up and, while versatile, will likely be let go.
Left Back: Harris is fine as starter, definitely good enough for L1
Johns might be used if he has developed on loan, otherwise I think he’ll be let go
Dimaio has no experience so will only be a bit part player
Freeman is a good backup here
Realistically we need another centre half if Harry goes. We need to keep Freeman or get someone like him that can play either side. We will probably need to replace Brayford.
Midfield
Doyle – will stay. Not the best player we have but has stepped up lately and has Clough’s confidence.
Coady – love to keep him but his logical next step is a year at a good Championship team. Wigan would probably suit him assuming they don’t go up.
Flynn – might be some sniffs for him but I think he will stay. Needs to bring his A game every time though
Scougal - will stay. He still needs to develop and has a good coaching staff to help him do that.
McGinn – not sure about him, seems like a drifter and not sure what he brings. Could be moved on.
Davies – will sign. Brings versatility. Not a winger, but can cover midfield and defence roles.
Brandy – bridges burned methinks.
We really need another couple of midfielders even if Davies signs.
Forwards
Porter – a tryer, but please move him on. I suspect he will be around though, seems to be liked by NC
Baxter – if we have a really good target man he can score a hatful
Paynter – bye, bye
Murphy – hold on tight, the Championship will be all over him. Strong likelihood he will move unfortunately.
Diego – breakthough year perhaps, but let’s not put all the weight on his shoulders
Ironside – just doesn’t look like the kind of player we need
Taylor – it would be interesting to see if Clough can get him to fit the system. He could answer some of the pace issues we have. Not convinced he is a natural finisher though.
We need a strong and PACY centre forward AND a backup for that role. There is talk of Ched returning. Notwithstanding the rights or wrongs of that, don’t expect miracles. He’s been out a long time, and remember he took ages to get going when he first arrived.
It will be an interesting summer for sure. In Clough we trust.