Walsall Football Club are pleased to announce the signing of defender Harry Williams from Alvechurch for an undisclosed fee.
After impressing the coaching staff while on pre-season trial, 20-year-old Williams has joined the Saddlers on a one-year contract, with the option of a one year extension.
Williams began his career at West Bromwich Albion, playing in their Under 18s and Under 23s and featuring in the EFL Trophy in the 2020-21 season.
Prior to joining Alvechurch in 2022, Williams had two brief stints at Burnley and Aston Villa.
The defender enjoyed a successful campaign with the Southern League Premier Division Central side and played his part in their run to the second round of the Emirates FA Cup, coming on as a substitute in their historic victory over League One side Cheltenham Town.
His performances also caught the eye of Leicester City who invited him for a trial back in May.
Williams is excited for his new challenge with the Saddlers.
“I’m really pleased to sign for Walsall,” he said.
“I’ve had a couple of games and I’ve really enjoyed the training so I’m happy to be here.
“The lads and the Head Coach have welcomed me and accepted me straight from the start, it feels like a family club.
“The main thing that struck me was the togetherness of the group and you can see that in the first couple of games. We’ve had two positive results against Leamington and we took that into the game against Aston Villa so hopefully we can build on that momentum and have a successful season.
“It’s a massive opportunity and I want to develop myself as a player and whatever opportunity I get, I’m going to give my best for the team and the gaffer.”
Head Coach Mat Sadler has been impressed with Williams during his time on trial and is looking forward to working with him.
“I’m really pleased to sign Harry,” he said.
“Harry has had a really strong season at Alvechurch. The links we have to the local non-league scene alerted me to him and he’s been with us for the last 10 days.
“Myself and others at the football club have got fantastic links with local non-league clubs. I’ve been listening and looking out for young, hidden gems coming up and I feel Harry fits that profile.
“We really thank Alvechurch, Mark Fogarty and the board of directors there for allowing us to have him with us and during that time we feel he has gone from strength to strength.
“He’s got a lot of ability and it’s a fantastic opportunity for him and for us to have him in the building.
“Not only has he earned the contract, he’s really improved and shown he can cope with the levels that we train at and he impacts the training sessions.
“He’s desperate to improve, desperate to get better and that’s the mentality we want at the football club.
“We look forward to seeing him develop.”