Oldham Athletic Sign Former Tranmere Midfielder Josh Hawkes

Oldham Athletic Sign Former Tranmere Midfielder Josh Hawkes

Oldham Athletic have completed the signing of midfielder Josh Hawkes on a two-year deal, marking another statement of intent as the club gears up for life back in the Football League.

 

The 26-year-old becomes the latest summer addition at Boundary Park after his departure from Tranmere Rovers, where he spent three seasons and built a reputation as a creative and goalscoring midfielder. Hawkes’ arrival is viewed by many as a significant boost to Oldham’s attacking options heading into the 2025/26 campaign.

 

Having contributed consistently in League Two with Tranmere—scoring 21 goals across 108 appearances—Hawkes brings both experience and technical quality to Micky Mellon’s squad. Mellon, who worked briefly with Hawkes during his own time at Tranmere, believes the midfielder’s best football is still ahead of him.

 

“I know Josh very well and I’m absolutely delighted he’s chosen to join our project here at Oldham,” said the Latics boss. “He’s got the ability to influence games, score goals, create chances—and crucially, he understands what this club is trying to build. He’s a great fit for what we’re doing.”

 

Oldham, who returned to the Football League following their promotion last season, have been proactive in the transfer market. Hawkes joins an increasingly ambitious setup at Boundary Park, with Mellon previously stating he has “big plans” for the club and is aiming to push even further up the pyramid.

 

For Hawkes, the move represents not just a new challenge, but a chance to be part of something he sees as special.

 

“Boundary Park has a great atmosphere and a real ambition to climb the leagues, which was a huge factor in me signing,” said Hawkes after putting pen to paper. “Speaking to the manager and seeing the direction the club is going in made the decision really easy. I want to be part of that journey and give everything I can on the pitch.”

 

Hawkes began his career at Hartlepool United before earning a move to Sunderland in 2020. Although his time at the Stadium of Light was brief, he impressed during loan spells and ultimately found regular football at Tranmere, where he became a key figure in midfield.

 

He now arrives at Oldham at a time of renewed optimism and upward momentum. Supporters, who have rallied behind the team during their non-league exile and celebrated a hard-fought promotion last season, will be eager to see how Hawkes can influence games in the famous blue shirt.

 

With Mellon keen to blend experience and hunger across his squad, Hawkes looks set to play a central role in the Latics’ return to League Two.

 

The club is expected to make further additions in the coming weeks, but the signing of Josh Hawkes already underlines Oldham’s intent to not just survive, but compete strongly on their return to the Football League.

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