National League newcomers Kidderminster Harriers are closing in on a deal to sign a former Sunderland defender, as their summer transfer activity continues.
Paul Wotton’s side have recently confirmed their retained list, following their promotion back to the fifth tier, with several departures occurring including two key players who turned down new contract offers.
Harriers reached the National League North play-off final last month – finishing third in the table, before going on to beat high-flying South Shields away from home to seal their return to the National League.
Fortunately for supporters, it appears as though their second summer signing is right around the corner.
Kidderminster set to land former Sunderland defender
Earlier this week saw Kidderminster clinched the signing of Torquay United forward Callum Dolan on a free transfer.
However, supporters can now brace themselves for a second acquisition, bringing back a former National League loan star to replace the departing Joe Foulkes.
As reported by journalist Alan Nixon, Kidderminster Harriers are set to complete the signing of defender Ben Crompton on a free transfer from Scottish League One side Ross County.
Crompton was a part of the side that suffered relegation last season – though of their 36 league outings, he only featured 12 times – with eight of them starts.
The 22-year-old was under contract at Ross County, but an agreement is set to be reached so he can leave via mutual consent, thus returning to England for the first time since his loan stint with fellow National League side Tamworth.
He was a part of the side that faced Tottenham Hotspur in the memorable FA Cup tie recently whilst being on loan from Premier League side Sunderland.
Is Crompton capable of replacing Foulkes?
Losing defender Joe Foulkes was highly likely to have been an outcome that Kidderminster supporters didn’t want to see this summer.
Foulkes joined the club from Walsall in the summer of 2024 and quickly established himself as a regular starter and fan favourite for the then-National League North side.
During their promotion-winning season, the 22-year-old made 34 league appearances and contributed to six goals in the process.
Throughout his stint with Kidderminster, Foulkes proved to be an asset in both boxes, creating chances whilst also being a part of a strong defensive line – thus suggesting his exit is a blow for the National League side.
However, he appears set to be replaced by Crompton – who is the same age and has an identical full-back profile.
Crompton had a successful loan stint with Tamworth two seasons ago, helping to achieve a top-half finish before his move to Scotland after departing Sunderland.
If you were to play devil’s advocate, one could suggest that Crompton’s recent stint potentially makes him a better player to have than Foulkes – purely for similar ability, play style and having more experience in the division.
Similarly, Crompton would be joining on a free transfer, thus protecting and possibly benefiting Kidderminster in the long run.
