The New Saints are delighted to announce the signing of striker Ben Wilson for a club record transfer fee.
Wilson, 23, makes the move to Park Hall from Scottish Championship side Airdrieonians, having spent the last 12 months of his career representing the Diamonds.
A product of the Brighton and Hove Albion youth academy, Wilson made his U18s Premier League debut at the age of just 16 and went on to represent the Seagulls in both the Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy 31 times over four subsequent seasons.
In 2023, the striker departed the south coast of England for pastures new and completed a move to Northern Irish Premiership side Cliftonville.
Wilson scored 19 goals in 40 appearances during the 2023/24 season, with his impressive performances attracting attention from Scottish championship side Airdrieonians.
Rhys McCabe’s side did eventually acquire his services in June 2024, and the 23-year-old picked up where he left off with a goal return of 17 in 46 games.
Helping the Diamonds avoid relegation with a goal in the play-off semi-final, the Northern Ireland U19 international was also the joint-top goalscorer in this season’s edition of the Scottish League Cup.
Speaking after his move to Park Hall, Wilson said:
“I’m buzzing to be here at Park Hall and to complete a move to The New Saints.
“All of the lads have been really welcoming so far, and I can’t wait to get started now! I’m excited to see what we can achieve this season.”
Sharing his thoughts on the club’s new signing, Head Coach Craig Harrison said:
“We are very pleased to get the signing of Ben over the line. He’s a player that’s been on our radar for a few months now.”
“He has a proven goal involvement record in both the Northern Irish Premiership with Cliftonville and the Scottish Championship with Airdrie, scoring double figures plus in a struggling team last season.
He’s also had a fantastic upbringing with Brighton, and is a natural goalscorer who can score lots of different types of goals. He will add competition to our already outstanding strike force.”
Chairman Mike Harris also commented on the move, saying:
“Signing a player of Ben’s quality is a real statement of intent.
“As we prepare for another UEFA Champions League campaign, we’re focused on strengthening every area of the squad, and Ben’s arrival shows our ambition.
“He’s young, hungry, and proven at a high level, which is exactly the type of player who can help us push on domestically and in Europe.
“The move also goes to show that the JD Cymru Premier is becoming a significant league, and putting itself in the same standing as other domestic leagues around Europe.”
Wilson will wear the number 28 shirt at Park Hall.
