York City have strengthened their squad with the acquisition of left-back Harry Boyes from Southend United for an undisclosed fee, the club has announced. The 24-year-old, who grew up in Barnsley, returns to Yorkshire after several seasons away from his home county.
Career path and recent form
Boyes came through the youth ranks at Manchester City before moving on to Sheffield United, where he earned his first professional deal. He gained senior experience through loan spells in non-league football, notably making a significant contribution for Solihull Moors. During his time there he made 36 appearances and scored five goals, performances that won him national recognition in the 2021/22 campaign.
His progress led to a move into the Football League with Forest Green Rovers in June 2022, where he featured in the first team. Further playing time at League One level followed via loans at Lincoln City, Wycombe Wanderers and Fleetwood Town. In the summer of 2025 he joined Southend United on a permanent basis and was a central figure in a season that saw the Shrimpers reach the National League play-offs and lift the FA Trophy at Wembley.
"Welcome to York, Harry!"
What this means for York City
- Adds a left-sided defender with a blend of non-league resilience and League One experience.
- Offers competition for defensive positions as the Minstermen aim to strengthen their squad depth.
- Returns a Yorkshire-born player to the county, which may resonate with local supporters.
The transfer remains subject to the usual FA and EFL approvals. York City did not disclose the fee involved. Supporters will be keen to see how Boyes integrates with the squad ahead of competitive fixtures and whether his previous form can be replicated at York.
| Club | Notes / Known stats |
|---|---|
| Manchester City (youth) | Youth career |
| Sheffield United | Turned professional |
| Bradford Park Avenue (loan) | Senior loan experience |
| Solihull Moors (loan) | 36 appearances, 5 goals; National League Team of the Season 2021/22 |
| Forest Green Rovers | 16 appearances in League One |
| Lincoln City / Wycombe / Fleetwood (loans) | Further League One experience |
| Southend United | Regular starts; play-offs and FA Trophy success |
| York City | Signed in August 2026; fee undisclosed |
Fans who want to follow developments should look for official club communications regarding Boyes' registration and potential first-team involvement. The signing represents a clear recruitment move by York City as they prepare for the coming fixtures.
