We are pleased to announce the arrival of three new signings ahead of tomorrow’s game against Notts County at Blundell Park.
Defender Doug Tharme, midfielder Harry Wood and striker Justin Obikwu became David Artell’s first signings of the transfer window.
First to put pen to paper earlier this week was Harry Wood, a 21 year-old midfielder who joins us on loan until the end of the season from Hull City.
The talented Yorkshireman has recently enjoyed a successful spell on loan at League of Ireland Premier Division side Shelbourne, where he made 15 appearances, scored twice and helped the Shels secure a place in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers.
Following his first signing as Town boss, Head Coach David Artell said, “Harry’s an exciting project. He can get forward, create goals and score goals and that’s what we have brought him into do from a midfield position.
“It’s exciting and hopefully he settles in well. He’s been keen to join us, and the plan is that he can add to what we have already started here.”
Promising Coventry City striker Justin Obikwu also signs on a loan deal until the end of the season.
The 19-year-old had a breakthrough season with the Sky Blues U21s last term and the young forward’s progress earned him a place on their pre-season tour of Portugal and a regular spot in Mark Robins’ matchday squads so far this season.
On Obikwu, Artell said, “Justin is young, energetic, quick, strong and he runs in behind.
“There are elements of his game that he still has to work on, but what he does provide is something that we haven’t got and that is real raw pace up the top end of the pitch.
“It’s his first loan so we’ve got to be a little bit careful with him and not expect too much too soon, but everyone at Coventry and ourselves think he’s ready for first team football and hopefully we will see plenty of that going forwards.’’
This morning, League One defender Doug Tharme signed from Blackpool for an undisclosed fee on a deal until June 2026.
The 24-year-old came through the ranks at Wrexham and had spells with Curzon Ashton and Connah’s Key Nomads before an impressive spell with Southport caught the eye of Blackpool.
Tharme spent last season on loan with Accrington Stanley, making 37 appearances for the then League One club and the defender has appeared five times for Blackpool this campaign.
Speaking after the capture of Tharme this morning, Artell said, “Doug is a big strong lad and someone we have been tracking for a while.
“We’re excited to get the deal done because it’s an area we needed to strengthen.
“We’re delighted to get someone in Doug who really wants to be here, really wants to improve with us and I’m looking forward to working with him.”
If you’re interested in being either Doug, Harry and Justin’s kit sponsor, contact matthew@gtfc.co.uk.
Welcome to the Mariners, lads!
