Walsall FC have bolstered their attacking options with the signing of 22-year-old forward Tai Sodje from National League North side Buxton on a two-year contract, with an option for a further year. The club confirmed Sodje as their seventh recruit of the summer as head coach Lee Grant continues to shape his squad ahead of the new League Two campaign.
From Manchester City academy to the Saddlers
Sodje began his career with his hometown club, Sheffield United, before moving into the academy at Manchester City. His goalscoring return for City's under-18s earned him a professional contract in the summer of 2021, and he went on to collect honours at under-18, under-21 and under-23 levels. During that period he lined up alongside players such as Cole Palmer.
Despite that youth-level success, Sodje did not make a competitive first-team appearance for City and moved to Buxton prior to last season. In National League North he recorded 14 goals in 26 games, contributing to Buxton's run to the second round of the FA Cup.
Where he fits at Walsall
At 22, Sodje arrives as a young forward with a proven scoring record at non-league level. His addition follows earlier summer arrivals — goalkeeper Jed Ward, defender James Connolly, midfielders Sven Sprangler, Lewis Simper and Isaac Moore (the latter on loan), and forward Andy Dallas — and represents continued recruitment to provide Lee Grant with options across the pitch.
- Contract: two years, with club option for a third
- Previous club: Buxton (National League North)
- Last season: 14 goals in 26 appearances
- Youth background: Sheffield United and Manchester City academies
Walsall's recruitment so far has aimed to strengthen several areas of the squad. Sodje offers a young, goal-focused profile and could compete for a starting role or provide depth as the campaign progresses. The club's option to extend his contract provides flexibility should he adapt quickly to League Two.
Quick reference: summer signings
| Player | Position | Move |
|---|---|---|
| Jed Ward | Goalkeeper | Permanent |
| James Connolly | Defender | Permanent |
| Sven Sprangler | Midfielder | Permanent |
| Lewis Simper | Midfielder | Permanent |
| Isaac Moore | Midfielder | Loan (from Coventry City) |
| Andy Dallas | Forward | Permanent |
| Tai Sodje | Forward | Buxton → Walsall |
With pre-season friendlies already under way, supporters will be keen to see how the new signings integrate on the pitch. For the club, the challenge will be turning summer recruitment into consistent performances once the league campaign begins.
Further details on squad numbers and fitness updates are typically issued by the club ahead of the opening fixtures.
