Carlisle United have moved to ease their striker shortage by signing teenage Bristol City forward Luke Skinner on loan. The 18-year-old has joined the Blues on a one-month loan and will be available for today's trip to Yeovil Town. United have moved into the loan market at a time their centre-forward options have been reduced by the injury to Luke Armstrong. After sending first-year pro Seb Mason out on loan to Stranraer on Friday, the Blues have now added Skinner to their options until mid-September.
What happened?
Carlisle United have signed Bristol City striker Luke Skinner on a one-month loan deal. The 18-year-old forward has impressed in his previous loan spells and will be available for today's trip to Yeovil Town.
Why it matters for Carlisle
The loan signing of Skinner provides much-needed cover for Carlisle United's striker shortage, which has been exacerbated by the injury to Luke Armstrong. With Skinner on board, the Blues will have a new option up front and will be looking to make the most of his talent.
What comes next?
Skinner will be available for Carlisle United's next fixture, which is against Eastleigh at home on February 20, 2027. The 18-year-old forward will be looking to make an impact in the National League and help the Blues climb the table.
Carlisle United are delighted to announce the arrival of Luke Skinner on a one-month loan deal from Bristol City. Brought to you by @NXTRecruitment 🤝- Carlisle United (@officialcufc) August 15, 2026
United head coach Rob Elliot, speaking on the club website, said: "We’re really pleased to bring Luke in. He’s a talented young player who has already gained valuable experience in senior football, and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can bring to the group.
Why it matters for Skinner
The loan signing of Skinner provides him with a new opportunity to showcase his talent in the National League. With Carlisle United, he will have the chance to play regular football and develop his skills further.
Skinner has had first-team experience in pre-season for Bristol City, featuring in the Championship club's pre-season friendly against Plymouth Argyle. He has come through the Robins' academy having been at the club since the age of six, and signed professional terms in 2024. He has been a regular goalscorer for City at various age group levels.
In the National League last season he scored two goals in seven appearances for Eastleigh, having scored three goals in 12 games for Weston-super-Mare in National League South earlier in the campaign. He ended the 2025/26 with a third loan spell at Bath, scoring one goal in six National League South outings.
League standing: 16th in National League, 0 pts, 0W-0D-1L from 1 games, recent form L. Goals this season: 2 scored, 3 conceded (-1 goal difference). Title race: 3 points behind leaders Harrogate Town. Next fixture: vs Eastleigh (at home, 2027-02-20) (8th in the table).
