Signing no.2 Ben Hughes
- Luca Garofalo
- Jun 20, 2025
- 2 min read
On a hot Friday afternoon the U's confirmed their second signing on the summer transfer window. After welcoming Ben Knight earlier on this month another Ben has joined up with the squad. He adds to the lenghty lists of Hughes' that have worn amber for the U's.
Who is Ben Hughes?
Ben Hughes is a Welsh 21 year old who has played for Wales U21 internationally and spent the last 3 years at Swansea City. Despite never making an appearance for their first team, Hughes has made appearances for Swansea's youth ranks and had a loan spell at Caernarfon last season. Valued at £75,000, Harris has signed the youngster on a free. This is his first senior transfer and will be looking to grow into the role of a back up keeper and pushing for the top spot. He has signed an initial 2 year deal, which will give Harris and goalkeeping coach Martin Davies enough time to identify where he can go next in what could be a very bright future.
What can we expect?
A shot stopping youngster who is brave under pressure with a high ceiling was well loved during his loan spell for Caernarfon for his penalty saves during their push for european qualification. Hughes is used to playing under immense scrutiny after going from 3rd choice keeper for Wales U21 to starting against England only 1 week later. The Welshman has grit and determination and a born hunger to grow and prove himself.
Overall, I'm happy that we have signed a highly rated youngster as JJ Briggs signed his contract for the mens team recently. Although many will be disappointed, I strongly believe that this is a good signing and is a step forward and not sideways. Lots to be positive about going into pre season on Monday.
Promising signing, Mitov and Mannion had similar profiles when they signed and they were our two best keepers in recent seasons. Lots to be positive about going into pre-season is a bit of stretch as they are clearly experiencing similar issues with player recruitment as last year. There still doesn't seem to be any clear recruitment strategy and it's clear they are struggling to get deals done. I can't see them putting a squad together that's strong enough to challenge for promotion. I think next year will be a season of transition and hopefully won't be any worse than mid table consolidation.