York City have kick-started their summer window, winning the race for one of League Two’s standout midfielders, who will join the club on a free transfer.

The Minstermen returned to the EFL in style. With consecutive 95+ point totals, a late goal from Rochdale appeared to resign the North Yorkshire club to the play-offs, until Josh Stones’ equaliser wrapped up one of the fifth tier’s greatest title races – seeing City return to the football league, ten years on from their relegation.

Now, their ambitions in League Two are being made clear, with their summer business already underway as one signature has committed to City for the 2026-27 campaign.

York City Poach Barnet Star

Earlier, Barnet announced their retained list, which was very much just a ‘retained list’, leaving many questions amongst Bees fans. 

And on this announcement, the situations of some star assets were left up in the air, particularly those of Anthony Hartigan and Mark Shelton. But the latter of the two’s future is now clear, as he makes the switch to North Yorkshire.

Shelton has been in and out of the EFL over the years. Initially making his debut in the Football League for Salford City, he was a key asset in Hartlepool’s National League play-off victory in 2021, before eventually returning to the fifth tier with Oldham Athletic and then Barnet. 

His two years for the Bees have been exceptional – returning 12 goals in last season’s title claim and registering 8 goals and assists in their EFL return, as Brennan’s side fell narrowly short of the top seven.

Now a sought-after asset in the EFL, he will be playing football for York City, who have officially announced their capture of the 29-year-old.

Is Mark Shelton A Good Signing for York City?

The short answer is yes, and this is also a real statement of intent.

City are a free-scoring side, spearheaded by Ollie Pearce and Josh Stones, while their midfield trio of Alex Hunt, Oliver Banks, and Hiram Boateng aren’t shy of the net.

Stuart Maynard’s side have blown away most of their opposition this season, winning promotion with 108 points and 114 goals – amassing a towering +73 goal difference, which even Rochdale could hardly match.

Shelton brings forth a new goalscoring threat and a younger profile than Banks. His experience in League Two is valuable and adds to a squad already rich in EFL know-how.

A dynamic midfielder, he is sure to be a key acquisition for York City, who are not here to make up the numbers in England’s fourth tier.