Forest Green sign Barnsley's International goalkeeper Jamie Searle

Forest Green have signed a new goalkeeper, Jamie Searle. The 22-year-old New Zealand international has signed a permanent transfer from League One side, Barnsley.

Searle, who had joined Barnsley from Swansea City the previous summer, made two appearances during the 2022/23 season.

Originally from New Zealand, he made his move to England in 2019, signing with Aston Villa. At 6'6", 

Expressing his excitement about joining Forest Green, Searle said, “I’m buzzing to be here. The whole club, the whole opportunity is something that I really looked at and thought 'I want to be a part of that'. The club wants to go forward and I want to go forward. I want to help the club get back to League One.”

Goalkeeping Coach, Dan Connor, also shared his positive view of the new signing.

“Jamie has the physical and psychological profile we’ve been looking for. He comes here with ambition, international pedigree and with youth on his side - and we’re all looking forward to working with him,” said Connor.

David Horseman, speaking about Searle, added, “Jamie is a goalkeeper with high potential. He’s hungry to play games and his personality type really fits with the group. He’s been at some big clubs and has played under some good coaches. We’re really excited to have him with us.”