Harrogate Town Sign Midfielder Will McGowan as Rebuild Continues

Harrogate Town have announced the signing of promising midfielder Will McGowan from Gateshead, marking their second permanent addition of the summer as they prepare for life back in the National League.

The 23-year-old has agreed a two-year deal with the Sulphurites for an undisclosed fee. McGowan arrives at Wetherby Road after impressing during two successful loan spells at Darlington in the National League North, where he made 43 appearances and earned Players’, Managers’, and Fans’ Player of the Season honours.

Born in Newcastle, McGowan is known for his creativity, progressive runs, and set-piece delivery. Recruitment head Lloyd Kerry highlighted the midfielder’s ability to control games and contribute in the final third, describing him as a “dynamic presence” who will strengthen Simon Weaver’s engine room.

McGowan becomes the second signing following the arrival of Bailey Hobson on a free transfer from Chesterfield. The moves signal Harrogate’s intent to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for an immediate return to the Football League after suffering relegation from League Two on the final day of the 2025/26 season.

The club finished 23rd in League Two with 39 points from 46 matches. Despite a difficult campaign that saw only 10 wins, manager Simon Weaver, who has been at the helm since 2009, remains a central figure in the club’s long-term vision. Weaver guided Harrogate to their historic promotion to the EFL in 2020 and will now lead the side in the National League for the 2026/27 campaign.

Off the pitch, the club continues to show positive momentum. Harrogate recently launched their new home shirt for the upcoming season in partnership with New Balance and revealed key dates for 2026/27, including the start of the National League season on Saturday 8th August. Pre-season preparations are well underway, with friendlies confirmed against the likes of Guiseley on July 11th.

In a statement, McGowan expressed his excitement at the opportunity: “I’m grateful for the chance to join Harrogate Town and really excited to get going. The club has a great reputation and ambitious plans – I can’t wait to help push the team forward.”

The signing comes as Harrogate look to refresh their squad following relegation. Several players departed at the end of last season, and the club have been active in identifying targets who fit Weaver’s preferred style of organised, hard-working football with moments of quality.

Fans have responded positively to the early summer activity, with many viewing McGowan as a shrewd acquisition who brings energy and technical ability to a midfield that will be crucial in the physically demanding National League.

As pre-season training intensifies and more fixtures are confirmed, all eyes will be on how quickly the new recruits can gel with the existing squad. With key dates now set and the new kit unveiled, optimism is building around The Exercise Stadium that Harrogate can make a strong impression on their return to non-league football.

Simon Weaver and his team will be determined to use the disappointment of relegation as motivation, aiming to establish themselves as serious contenders in the National League from the outset.