Football News Update: Wales Under-21 Captain Joins Newport County in Permanent Deal
In a major move within the world of Football, Wales under-21 skipper Matt Baker has joined League Two club Newport County on a permanent deal from Championship side Stoke City. The versatile 21-year-old defender or midfielder has signed a two-year contract after the clubs agreed on a “compensation agreement”.
Baker, who was recently called up to the Wales senior squad for their summer friendlies against Gibraltar and Slovakia, is no stranger to the Newport faithful, having enjoyed loan spells with the club in January 2023 and last season, where he made 39 appearances.
“I am really happy to be back here at the club, this time on a permanent basis. To be back here playing in front of these fans is amazing, and I cannot wait to get started. Being here on a permanent basis now gives me a chance to build on last season.”
The signing of Baker marks Newport County’s seventh acquisition of the summer transfer window, as the club looks to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming EFL League Two campaign. The young Welsh talent joins the likes of Jacob Carney, Oliver Greaves, Kai Whitmore, Joe Thomas, Ciaran Brennan, and Anthony Glennon, all of whom are 24 or under, reflecting Newport’s focus on building a youthful and dynamic team.
With the Euro 2024 qualifiers, UEFA Champions League, and the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on the horizon, this move for Matt Baker could be a significant step in his development, as he aims to continue his progression and potentially earn more senior international recognition with Wales.
As the football world eagerly anticipates the start of the new season, this transfer news will undoubtedly be of great interest to fans of Newport County, the EFL, and Welsh football as a whole.
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