January Starts With A Bang As Clubs Start To Make Moves

7 Jan 2025 By Tom Scott

There's big moves being made as we head into the second half of the National League season.

York City are leaving nothing to chance in their pursuit of regaining their EFL place.

The Minstermen confirmed the signing of Josh Stones - who had spent time on loan at Oldham Athletic this season - from League One side Wigan Athletic.

Stones started his career in the National League U19 Alliance with Guiseley before making the move to Wigan in 2022.

A loan spell at Ross County followed before he made his mark at Boundary Park - notching four goals in six games this season.

Gateshead have lost two of their big-name players as both Owen Oseni and Calum Whelan moved on last week.

Oseni was the first one to depart – he's signed for Scottish Premiership side St Mirren.

The 21-year-old striker – who also had a spell at National League North Rushall Olympic last season – notched 12 league goals this season for the Heed.

The Heed were dealt a second blow a few days later when Carlisle United announced the capture of star man Calum Whelan.

The midfielder links back up with former boss Mike Williamson at Carlisle United as the Cumbrians boss finally gets his hands on someone, he says he’s been pursuing for a while.

Issac Fletcher is making a two-step leap into the EFL as well with League Two side Barrow.

The former Spennymoor Town man has been prolific once again this season – notching 11 goals in the National League North.

Woking have announced the signing of 31-year-old striker Aidan O'Brien on a short-term deal until the end of the season.

Young Crystal Palace defender Chris Francis has penned a loan deal at Dagenham & Redbridge ahead of their huge FA Cup tie at Millwall on Monday.

Maidenhead United started 2025 with a new addition as the Magpies added Noah Stewart from Northern Irish side Ballymena United.

The 20-year-old striker was crucial in confirming United's survival in the NIFL Premiership last season - scoring nine goals after his move from Linfield.

James McShane and Luke Moore have bagged loan moves away from Dorking Wanderers. The pair join Horsham and Ashford United, respectively.

Where next?

Magnay Knows Gateshead Can Combat Their January Blues Gateshead manager Carl Magnay says the club are more than used to coping with tricky transfer windows and he sees no reason why they won’t navigate this one.

Points As Well As FA Trophy Progress On The Line Tonight There are some vital league and cup points as well as a place in the FA Trophy fifth round on offer this evening.