The Valiants have announced that experienced Goalkeeper, Connor Ripley, has agreed a two-year deal with the Valiants from 1st July, subject to EFL and FA approval.
The 6ft 3in Goalkeeper becomes the Vale’s second signing of the summer, joining the Club upon the expiry of his existing contract with Morecambe FC.
Since making his professional debut in the Championship with Middlesbrough, Ripley, 30, has since gone on to make over 220 career league appearances, picking up over 50 clean sheets in the process.
A stand-out player last season, Ripley’s impressive performances saw him pick up the EFL League One Player of the Month award in November 2022 before being voted as Morecambe FC’s 2022/23 Player of the Season after making the most saves at League One level.
Speaking of his two-year deal with the Valiants, Connor Ripley said:
“I am really happy to sign for the club. I’ve known that Port Vale were interested in me for a while and we have been in touch with the club over the off-season and I am really happy to finally get it done.
“The conversations with Andy Crosby and Dave Flitcroft about where the club is heading and wants to go made it something that I wanted to be a part of.
“They said that they want more experience at the back and that’s something that I can definitely bring to the table.”
Port Vale FC Director of Football, Dave Flitcroft, added:
“We have been keen on bringing Connor to Vale Park ever since we learned of his availability at the back end of last season, and I am absolutely delighted that we have been able to get it over the line.
“Following initial conversations, it was clear to see that Connor instantly bought in to and wanted to be a part of everything that we are building towards here at Port Vale.
“Connor’s performances on the pitch, particularly last season where he was statistically one of the highest-performing Goalkeepers within League One, deservedly attracted interest from a number of clubs at this level and we are excited that he has chosen to be a part of our project and journey.”
Port Vale FC Manager, Andy Crosby, said:
“It’s fantastic to have Connor on board as we build towards next season and beyond.
“A brilliant Goalkeeper and a born leader both on and off the pitch, Connor embodies every attribute that is required to be a part of our squad here at Port Vale.
“We are all looking forward to welcoming Connor to Vale Park and to be working closely with him next season and beyond.”
