Wimbledon’s forward line has received a major boost with the deadline day signing of Solihull Moors striker Josh Kelly.
Arriving for an undisclosed fee, the 25-year-old has signed a two-and-a-half year contract with the option of a third and brings with him a prolific scoring pedigree.
Beginning his career at youth level with Ascot United, Josh would go on to join Windsor before being handed his senior debut aged just 16.
Listen to Josh Kelly's first interview with Rob Cornell below.
It was a move to Maidenhead United in the summer of 2015 that proved to be a real catalyst for the striker, as he went on to hit 27 goals for the Magpies, earning himself the golden boot, manager’s player and players’ player of the year awards.
The spell in Berkshire also included a loan with Walton Casuals, for whom he also netted an impressive 28 goals in 40 games.
His eye-catching seven years at Maidenhead convinced Solihull Moors to part with an undisclosed fee to take Josh to the Midlands amidst interest from several EFL clubs. It was under our former manager, Neal Ardley, that he continued his fine scoring form, hitting 11 goals in 2022/23.
Josh’s purple patch in front of goal has shown no signs of stopping this season, with 13 goals in 27 games underlining his clear and undeniable talents in and around the penalty box.
Having now realised his dream of playing in the Football League, Josh can’t wait to start proving his worth with the Dons here at the Cherry Red Records Stadium.
“Once I heard that Wimbledon were interested there was only one thing on my mind,” he said. “I’ve been in the National League for a few years and now it’s up to me to prove that I can make the step up.
“I’m quick, direct and I feel like I can keep scoring goals here. I just want to say thank you to the fans and that I’m looking forward to the journey here.”
Johnnie Jackson said: “This is a really exciting signing for the Club. Josh has scored goals for a number of years at National League level and is ready to make the step up to league football. As soon as I spoke to him I got a real sense that he was desperate to come and join in with what we’re doing.
“It seems like a perfect fit. He fits into our style and the way we want to play. He has brilliant movement about him, he’s clever and intelligent with his runs and he’s obviously a natural finisher. Most importantly he’s a really good character who wants to work hard for us.”
Head of Football Operations Craig Cope said: “We’re delighted to bring Josh to the Club, a local lad who is deserving of his chance in the EFL.
“One of the National League’s top performers who fits our culture and can grow with us over the next few years. I would like to thank Solihull for their support with this transfer.”
