Tom Solanke joins Alfreton Town after leaving Stourbridge

Alfreton Town have strengthened their midfield options with the signing of Tom Solanke from fellow Northern Premier League Premier Division side Stourbridge. The 25-year-old joins the Derbyshire club as they prepare for the new campaign.

From the Hawthorns to the Football Manager pitch

Solanke came through the youth ranks at West Bromwich Albion, where he featured for the Baggies’ Under-21 side in the EFL Trophy before being released in 2023. He then spent two seasons developing his game at Stratford Town.

The versatile midfielder subsequently moved to Stourbridge, where he made 42 appearances in the Southern League Premier Central division last season before his switch to Alfreton.

Solanke’s delight at new challenge

Speaking after putting pen to paper, Solanke expressed his excitement at the move. “I’m delighted to have signed for Alfreton Town,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to this new challenge and can’t wait to get going.”

The signing adds further depth to Alfreton’s squad ahead of a new campaign in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, one of the key steps on the non-league pyramid below the National League.

Solanke’s experience across several levels of non-league football, combined with his academy pedigree from West Brom, will be seen as a valuable addition for the Reds as they look to build on last season’s efforts.