Bolton Wanderers is delighted to announce the signing of goalkeeper Luke Southwood, who will join the club on a two-year deal from 1 July 2024, with the club holding an option of a further year.
The 26-year old arrives at the Toughsheet Community Stadium looking to add further competition to the goalkeeping department in the coming seasons.
After departing Cheltenham Town in recent weeks after an incredibly successful spell with the Robins, the ‘keeper will link up with his new teammates at the start of next month.
Starting his career in the Reading academy, Southwood progressed through to first team level and went on to make 26 appearances for the Royals in the Championship.
Successful loan spells have formed part of Southwood’s development with time spent in non-league, as well as the top-flight of Scotland with Hamilton Academicals, as a way of gaining vital first-team experience at a young age.
A move to Cheltenham followed - initially on loan before making it permanent in the summer of 2023 - becoming a mainstay in the Robins’ side over a two-year spell.
Southwood went on to make 99 appearances for Cheltenham, with his performances between the sticks earning a Supporters’ Player of the Year award during his time at the Completely-Suzuki Stadium.
He also carries international experience, both as part of the victorious England squad that won the U20 World Cup in South Korea back in 2017 as well as senior cap for Northern Ireland – qualifying for selection through his grandmother.
With over 150 league appearances to his name already, Southwood arrives at Wanderers looking to settle as quickly as possible when pre-season starts in the coming weeks.
Luke Southwood said: “I’m absolutely buzzing to get it over the line.
“There is so many reasons (why I’ve joined). Playing against Bolton over the last couple of years and seeing the fans here is enough of a reason in itself.
“Speaking to the lads I know that are already here also made it an easy decision. The Gaffer then explained what his plans were and what he wants to see from both myself and the team, and I was on board with it straight away.
“As soon as this opportunity came around, I couldn’t wait to get it done. I just can’t wait to get going now.
“Everyone knows what the goal is for this season, and we’ll be doing all we can to make it happen.”