Walsall Football Club are delighted to announce the signing of Joe Riley on a two-year contract.
The 25-year-old will officially join on July 1st upon the expiry of his contract at Carlisle United.
Riley can play in both full-back positions as well as in central midfield.
He began his career at Premier League club Manchester United. Riley played twice in the United first team during the 2015/16 season, against Shrewsbury Town in the FA Cup and FC Midtjylland in the UEFA Europa League.
The versatile player moved to Sheffield United on loan in the 2016/17 season before leaving Old Trafford on a permanent basis in 2018, joining Bradford City where he spent two seasons.
In August 2020, Riley signed for Carlisle where he played 84 times and scored five goals.
Riley is looking forward to joining up with the squad and is thrilled to join the Club.
“I’m excited,” he said.
“I’m more than ready to get myself back into it now. I’ve kept myself ticking over in that time but I’m ready to get back to it now, meet the lads and hopefully have a successful season.
“To hear the ambitions of the Club and to be a part of that this season and the one after is something I’m ready to buy into.
“I’ve played 84 games in the last two seasons and I feel confident within myself. I’ve come on, not just in terms of learning League Two, but mentally as well.
“I feel I am more experienced now and I can help the younger players but as well, I’m in a position where I want to learn from other players.”
Head Coach Michael Flynn is pleased to further strengthen his squad.
“Joe is an exciting player,” he said.
“He came through at Manchester United and he’s getting better and better.
“He’s at a great age, 25 and I’m really excited to be working with Joe.
“He’s definitely one who can make his mark on Walsall Football Club and on the league next season.”