Louie Barry joins Stockport County from Barcelona via Wembley route

A former England youth international, Louie Barry has signed a permanent contract with Stockport County, ending months of speculation over his future. The striker, who turns 25 next month, arrives at Edgeley Park on a free transfer after Barcelona B opted not to renew his contract. Stockport manager Dave Challinor confirmed the deal on Tuesday, calling Barry a "proven goal scorer at this level."

Barry’s path to Stockport is anything but straightforward. Since making his professional debut for Aston Villa in 2019, he has been shuffled between nine different clubs on loan, including spells in the Championship and League One. His most high-profile cameo came in May 2023, when he featured as a substitute in the FA Cup final at Wembley, playing for Manchester United’s academy side against Manchester City.

Despite the nomadic career, Barry has carved out a reputation as a reliable marksman in lower-league football. Last season, he netted 12 times in League Two while on loan at a rival club, proving his ability to deliver under pressure. Stockport, who finished sixth in the National League last term, are banking on his experience to push for promotion in the upcoming campaign.

The move reunites Barry with Challinor, who previously managed him during a brief loan spell at Hartlepool United in 2022. "He’s got the hunger and the ability," Challinor said. "We know what he can do, and we’re excited to have him lead our line." Barry, who has never started a league game for Barcelona’s senior team, will wear the number 9 jersey at Stockport.

Stockport’s signing of Barry underscores the club’s strategy of recruiting proven lower-league talent to bolster their squad. The National League side, owned by local businessman Mark Stott, has invested in squad depth ahead of a potential push for the playoffs. Barry’s arrival comes just weeks after the club secured defender Aaron Wildig on a permanent deal from Wrexham.

For Barry, the move represents a chance to rebuild his career in English football after years of uncertainty. "I’m ready to show what I can do," he said in a club statement. "Stockport is a great club with a bright future, and I want to be part of that." The 24-year-old will join his new teammates for pre-season training next week, with the National League season kicking off on August 10.

With the National League season fast approaching, Barry’s arrival adds firepower to Stockport’s attack. Whether he can replicate his loan form consistently remains to be seen, but for now, the club is banking on his proven ability to find the net.