Glentoran have completed the signing of Larne midfielder Joe Thomson for an undisclosed fee. The Oval club announced the deal on Thursday evening.

The former Scotland Under-21 international has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with Declan Devine's side, committing his future to the club until the end of the 2026/27 season.

The 28-year-old becomes the East Belfast outfit's fourth signing of the January transfer window, following on from Christie Pattisson, Shane McEleney, and Ciarán Coll.

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Thomson follows Levi Ives out of Larne after Coleraine confirmed the signing of the former Cliftonville defender earlier today.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to sign for Glentoran. I’ve always enjoyed playing at the BetMcLean Oval, the atmosphere here is second to none. As an opposition player, it was always a challenge, and I can’t wait to experience that incredible support as a home player.

“I’ve been hugely impressed with how Declan Devine and his coaching staff have built such a strong, competitive squad in such a short time. The style of football they play suits me perfectly, and after meeting the team, I can sense a real buzz, professionalism and ambition throughout the club. I’m excited to get started and contribute to the team’s success.

“Having worked with Declan at Derry City, I know the high standards he sets and the vision he has for Glentoran. I’m determined to help the team push forward, compete for more silverware, and hopefully bring league titles and European football back to this club.

“To the fans, I can’t wait to pull on the Glentoran jersey, give everything I have on the pitch, and play my part in bringing more success to the club.”

Glentoran manager Devine added: “I’m thrilled to finally bring Joe Thomson to Glentoran. He’s a player I’ve admired for a long time and worked with previously at Derry City.

"Joe is a proven performer with significant domestic and European experience. His blend of quality, tenacity and creativity makes him an outstanding box-to-box midfielder capable of influencing games at both ends of the pitch.

“His arrival bolsters an already competitive midfield group featuring Sule, Singleton, Palmer, Douglas, Lindsay and Thorndike, adding both depth and quality to a crucial area of the team. His big-game experience and leadership on the pitch will be invaluable as we push for success in the second half of the season.

“I’d like to thank Ali Pour for his support and Paul Millar for his hard work in securing this signing. Joe’s addition reflects our ambition to build a squad capable of winning silverware and competing in Europe. I’m looking forward to having him available for this weekend’s match against Loughgall.”

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