Carlisle United today announced the signing of the versatile 26 year old Josh Grant. Grant, who spent the 2024/25 season playing for now fellow National League side Wealdstone, has joined the Blues on a 1 year contract following a trial spell having turned down a new deal with the Stones.
Grant spent 13 years in the youth setup at Chelsea and represented England at U18 and U20 level, having loan spells in the EFL with Yeovil and Plymouth before joining League One side Bristol Rovers on a 3 year contract, he went on to make 101 appearances for the Gas, scoring 5 goals in the process.
Grant is regarded as a dynamic and versatile player who can operate in both defense and midfield, and will add some much needed competition in these areas for United in the upcoming National League season
Head of Football Operations, Marc Tierney said: “Josh is a dynamic and versatile midfielder who brings valuable EFL experience to Brunton Park, as well as having previously represented Chelsea at youth level.
“After an impressive week training with the squad, he’s already making his mark and is an exciting new addition to the team.”
Head of Recruitment, Martin Foyle said: “I’ve watched Josh over the years and he has the quality to take us back to the level where we want to be. Now we have real competition for places in the midfield area.
“We’re all looking forward to working with Josh and we’re delighted to have got this deal over the line.”
What Will Josh Grant bring to Carlisle?
Grant strikes me as an interesting signing, after having spent a good period of time at Bristol Rovers and largely being well thought of at the Memorial Stadium, he eventually dropped down to National League level to play for Wealdstone as they endured a tough 2024/25 campaign, finishing just above the drop zone in 20th. Wealdstone supporters have largely expressed their disappointment at his departure however, indicating that Grant may have been one of the shining lights in the side despite their struggles.
Grant comes in as the type of player that Carlisle will benefit from however, with the club lacking real depth in the middle of the park following the departures of Callum Guy, Josh Vela and Taylor Charters, as well as Sean Fusire returning to Sheffield Wednesday and Will Patching being loaned out to Coleraine.
Grant’s versatility could be a big asset to the Blues next season too, with his ability to also slot into defensive areas too if the need arises, his previous EFL experience is also a bonus and will make an extension enticing should Carlisle be able to make the swift return to League 2 that they’re aiming for.
We at Paddock Perception would like to offer Josh a warm welcome and wish him a thoroughly successful spell at the club.
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