Joe Riley, whose contract with Carlisle United expires on June 30, has signed a two-year deal with Division Two rivals Walsall.
The 25-year-old, who started his career at Premier League club Manchester United, can play in both full-back positions as well as in central midfield.
He played twice in the Old Trafford first team during the 2015/16 season, against Shrewsbury Town in the FA Cup and FC Midtjylland in the UEFA Europa League.
He moved to Sheffield United on loan in the 2016/17 season before leaving Old Trafford on a permanent basis in 2018, joining Bradford City where he spent two seasons.
In August 2020, Riley signed for Carlisle where he played 84 times and scored five goals.
After signing Riley said: “I’m more than ready to get myself back into it now. I’ve kept myself ticking over in that time but I’m ready to get back to it now, meet the lads and hopefully have a successful season.
“To hear the ambitions of the slub and to be a part of that this season and the one after is something I’m ready to buy into.
“I’ve played 84 games in the last two seasons and I feel confident within myself. I’ve come on, not just in terms of learning League Two, but mentally as well.
“I feel I am more experienced now and I can help the younger players but as well, I’m in a position where I want to learn from other players.”
Head coach Michael Flynn said: “Joe is an exciting player. He came through at Manchester United and he’s getting better and better.
“He’s at a great age, 25 and I’m really excited to be working with him.
“He’s definitely one who can make his mark on Walsall Football Club and on the league next season.”
