The Saddlers have added a young goalkeeper to their ranks. Walsall have completed the signing of Stoke City goalkeeper Tommy Simkin, who arrives at the Poundland Bescot Stadium on a season-long loan. A product of the Potters’ youth system, Simkin has made his way through the ranks at the Bet365 Stadium, earning appearances across various age groups along the way. Along with his Stoke appearances, the young stopper, who penned a new long-term contract in 2023, has also enjoyed loan spells with AFC Fylde, Solihull Moors, and Forest Green Rovers.

Walsall head coach Mat Sadler was delighted to welcome Tommy to the club. Speaking via the club’s official website, Sadler said, “I am delighted with the signing of Tommy. He is a lad who has an incredible pedigree, having gone through all of the England age groups, and he had a fantastic loan with Solihull Moors last season.

He is somebody who I have been aware of over the last 12 months because of the local connections that we have, and I am really pleased to have got it over the line. He is a Walsall boy with family and friends who are massive fans of the club, so to have another one in the group will only benefit us, I feel.

We’d like to thank Stoke as well for the work they have put in to make this deal happen; they have been great. We have got a really good relationship with them and we look forward to continuing to build on that in the future.”