Swindon bolster midfield with two‑year signing of Matty Virtue

Swindon Town have secured experienced midfielder Matty Virtue on a two‑year deal, adding him after his 89 appearances for Fleetwood Town over the past two seasons. The 29‑year‑old becomes the club’s second summer signing, following defender Stephan Negru, to strengthen the squad.

Virtue, 29, spent the last two seasons at Fleetwood Town, where he made 89 league appearances before his contract ran out this summer. His departure from Fleetwood opened the door for Swindon to acquire his services.

Before joining Fleetwood, Virtue played for Blackpool, having been signed from Liverpool in 2019. His experience across the English lower leagues adds depth to Swindon’s midfield options.

Speaking to Swindon’s website, Virtue said, “Obviously there’s one aim, everyone knows it, and you want to be successful in your football career. The club wants to be successful, so why would I not want to join?”

He added, “It’s always nice to come back in; there’s always a bit of nerves meeting a new set of lads, and a new staff, but they’ve all been really helpful and accommodating, and I’m looking forward to kicking on.” Virtue’s comments suggest he feels welcomed by the club’s personnel.

Virtue’s arrival follows Swindon’s earlier acquisition of former Oxford United defender Stephan Negru, marking the club’s continued recruitment drive this summer. The back‑to‑back signings indicate a strategic effort to reinforce multiple areas of the squad.

Fleetwood Town had originally signed Virtue on a two‑year contract before his move to Swindon. His contract with Fleetwood expired, allowing him to join the Wiltshire side on a free transfer.

Virtue will join Swindon’s pre‑season training ahead of the upcoming campaign, aiming to help the club achieve its stated ambition of success. Integrating with new teammates will be his immediate priority as the season approaches.