Walsall sign James Connolly on two-year deal after Crewe exit | OneFootball

James Connolly has joined Walsall on a two-year contract, with an option for a third, becoming their fourth summer addition.

According to ExpressAndStar.com, the 24-year-old has departed Crewe Alexandra after turning down a new contract and links up with new head coach Lee Grant at the Bescot Stadium.

The centre-back played 45 times for Crewe last season, including 41 League Two outings. He made 71 appearances in total for the Railwaymen, scoring three goals. On Monday it was confirmed he would move on in pursuit of a new challenge.

Liverpool-born Connolly came through Blackburn Rovers’ academy before joining Cardiff City in 2021. He enjoyed a successful loan at Bristol Rovers in the second half of 2021/22, helping secure promotion.

He then returned to the Memorial Stadium on a permanent deal, signing for three years and adding 36 appearances. A loan to Morecambe followed, then a switch to Crewe in August 2024.

Connolly has also represented Wales Under-21s, keeping a clean sheet on his international debut in June 2022.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com