Harrogate Town Complete Signing of Defender Archie Baptiste

Harrogate Town have announced the signing of young centre-back Archie Baptiste from Middlesbrough on a two-year deal, as the club continues to reshape its squad following relegation from League Two.

The 20-year-old defender becomes the latest addition to Simon Weaver’s side ahead of their first season in the National League. Baptiste, who has experience with the academies of Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur before joining Middlesbrough, made his senior debut for Boro in a Championship fixture last November. He also captained Middlesbrough’s under-21 side and spent time on loan at Rochdale.

Harrogate’s recruitment team highlighted Baptiste’s strong communication skills, aggression in duels, and ability to play out from the back. The towering defender is seen as an ideal fit for the physical demands of the National League as Town look to build a competitive squad capable of mounting a promotion challenge in 2026/27.

The move comes on the same day that star midfielder Jack Evans departed the club to join Notts County for an undisclosed fee. Evans, who earned both the Players’ and Fans’ Player of the Season awards during the 2025/26 campaign, played a key leadership role for the Sulphurites despite the difficult season that ultimately ended in relegation.

Manager Simon Weaver paid tribute to Evans for his contributions over recent years while welcoming the arrival of fresh talent. “Jack has been outstanding for us and we wish him all the best at Notts County,” Weaver said. “At the same time, we’re delighted to bring Archie in. He’s a hungry young player with real quality who wants to develop and play regular first-team football.”

Harrogate Town finished 23rd in League Two last season and were relegated after a difficult campaign marked by a poor points tally in the opening months. The club have been active in the transfer market during the summer, with several players departing and new signings arriving as they prepare for life in the fifth tier.

Pre-season preparations are well underway, with Town securing positive results in early friendlies. The squad has shown encouraging signs on the pitch as they build fitness and cohesion ahead of the National League campaign, which kicks off in August.

Club officials have also confirmed the release of the 2026/27 National League fixtures, with several familiar Yorkshire and Northern rivals on the schedule along with new opponents. Fans have expressed optimism about the direction of the club, particularly with the continued stewardship of long-serving manager Simon Weaver.

Baptiste could feature in upcoming pre-season matches as Harrogate fine-tune their squad. The defender expressed excitement about the move, stating he is looking forward to regular game time and helping the team achieve success in the National League.

With the new season fast approaching, Harrogate Town remain focused on rebuilding and creating a competitive side at The Exercise Stadium. The signing of Baptiste represents another step in that process as the club aims to bounce back strongly from relegation.