Newport County AFC have secured the services of defender Joe Thomas on a two-year contract from Swansea City.
The 22-year-old departed Swansea’s academy at the conclusion of last season, having initially joined from Cambrian & Clydach Vale in January 2022.
Thomas, known for his athleticism at right-back, is poised to advance into senior football after completing his move to Newport, where he will provide support to the influential Shane McLoughlin.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the club and eager to begin,” remarked Thomas, who featured regularly for Swansea’s under-23 team.
“Discussions have been ongoing for a few weeks now, and I’m excited about what lies ahead. I consider myself an attacking player, but I also value my defensive duties. I’m eager to progress and contribute positively in the upcoming season.”
Thomas becomes County’s third summer signing following the acquisitions of left-back Anthony Glennon and central defender Ciaran Brennan from Grimsby and Sheffield Wednesday, respectively.
Under owner Huw Jenkins’ guidance in recruitment and retention, Newport County AFC has prioritized signing young players with potential resale value through development.
Joe Thomas aims to compete for League Two opportunities, challenging established first-choice right-back Shane McLoughlin, who impressed in his debut season with Newport. McLoughlin was previously supported by loanee Lewis Payne, now returned to Southampton, and young full-back Harrison Bright, released at season’s end.
Additionally, center-back Josh Seberry initially filled in on the right, impressing until a season-ending injury during the November match against Notts County.
The Irish prospect is set to rejoin the squad for pre-season preparations as Newport County AFC anticipates appointing a new manager.
Further signings are on the horizon as County gears up for the start of pre-season training.
Huw Jenkins is actively searching for a new head coach following the departures of manager Graham Coughlan and assistant Joe Dunne.
Currently, first-team coach Dafydd Williams, goalkeeping coach Jim Hollman, and conditioning coach Scott Wickens remain in their roles, ensuring continuity should a new manager not be in place for the start of League Two preparations.
Newport County’s pre-season schedule includes their first friendly against Undy on July 13, leading up to their season opener against Cheltenham on August 10.
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