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Leyton Orient have completed the signing of defender Will Forrester from Bolton Wanderers on a two-and-a-half-year deal for an undisclosed fee, with the 24-year-old becoming the club’s first acquisition of the January transfer window after making 53 appearances for the Trotters across all competitions.
Leyton Orient Complete Signing of Bolton Defender Will Forrester on Long-Term Deal
The centre-back made 53 appearances in all competitions for Bolton Wanderers, scoring one goal in the FA Cup during his time at the University of Bolton Stadium. Forrester was part of the Bolton squad that reached the 2023-24 League One play-off final, bringing valuable experience of high-pressure matches to his new club in east London.
Forrester expressed his enthusiasm about joining Orient, telling the club’s official website that he is “very happy to have signed here” and describing the move as “very exciting” based on the club’s ambitions. The defender highlighted his conversations with manager Richie Wellens, stating that the gaffer “has outlined his expectations of me and I want to help push us forwards” as Orient look to improve their current league position.
The 24-year-old acknowledged Orient’s previous success in reaching the play-offs last season and outlined his determination to help the team return to those heights. “I know the challenges of reaching the play-offs the year before and want to help the lads get back on track as quickly as possible,” Forrester explained, demonstrating his understanding of the club’s recent history and current objectives.
Forrester began his professional career at Stoke City before moving to Port Vale in 2022, where he made 38 appearances in one season. He subsequently joined Bolton Wanderers in the summer of 2023, establishing himself as a regular in their defence during his time in Greater Manchester before completing his move to Brisbane Road.
Orient currently sit one point and one place above the relegation zone after 24 League One matches, despite reaching the play-off final last season. Wellens’ side face a challenging test on Saturday when they host league leaders Cardiff City at Brisbane Road, with Forrester potentially available for his debut against the Welsh club.
