Walsall have confirmed the signing of Alvechurch defender Harry Williams, who joins for an undisclosed fee, following a successful trial spell.Penning a one-year contract which includes an option for a further season, the 20-year-old has impressed the coaching staff while on pre-season trial and will provide welcome competition in the backline.
Williams began his career at West Bromwich Albion, playing in their Under 18s and Under 23s, as well as featuring in the EFL Trophy in the 2020/21 season.
Following brief spells with Burnley and Aston Villa, Williams joined Alvechurch in 2022 and enjoyed a successful campaign with the Southern League Premier Division Central side, playing a 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.
Speaking via the club's official website, Saddlers Head Coach Mat Sadler admitted he has been impressed with Williams during his time on trial and is looking forward to working with him, he said; "I’m really pleased to sign Harry. 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."