Rhyl: Four transfer arrivals as goalkeeper makes Cymru Premier move

Rhyl 1879 have continued their summer rebuild ahead of the 2026/27 Cymru North season, bringing in four new signings while goalkeeper Alex Swindell has departed Belle Vue.

The Lilywhites are wasting little time in preparing for the new season, with manager and coaching staff actively reshaping the squad during the summer transfer window.

Rhyl have confirmed the departures of goalkeeper Alex Swindell and Damase Kiwanda, but have already strengthened key areas of the squad with the additions of Theo Farquharson, Dan Cockerline, Joel Giblin, and Brad Barnes.

Rhyl 1879’s transfer business

One of Rhyl’s most eye-catching additions is Joel Giblin, who arrives after an impressive campaign with Ruthin Town.

The attacking midfielder contributed six goals and five assists in 25 Cymru North appearances last season, underlining his ability to influence matches in the final third. His experience in the division could prove valuable as Rhyl look to push on during the 2026/27 season.

Defensively, Rhyl have strengthened with the signing of centre-back Theo Farquharson. Farquharson joins from English side Abby Hey, who compete in the ninth tier of the English football pyramid. The defender will add depth and competition to Rhyl’s back line as the club continues to build a squad capable of competing near the top of the Cymru North table.

Further forward, striker Dan Cockerline arrives from Stafford Rangers. The forward returns to Welsh football after a previous spell with Aberystwyth Town and brings valuable experience from the English non-league game. Rhyl supporters will hope his attacking qualities can help boost the club’s goalscoring output in the upcoming campaign.

Rhyl’s latest signing is midfielder Brad Barnes. The 20-year-old became a free agent after his contract with Connah’s Quay Nomads was not renewed and has quickly secured a move to Belle Vue.

Barnes made 29 appearances across spells with Denbigh Town and Buckley Town last season, scoring five goals and providing one assist.

Goalkeeper departs for Cymru Premier

While Rhyl have been busy strengthening, goalkeeper Alex Swindell has completed a move to fellow North Wales side Holywell Town.

The 24-year-old returns to the Cymru Premier after departing Belle Vue, becoming Holywell’s first signing of the summer transfer window.

Swindell enjoyed a solid season with Rhyl 1879, keeping six clean sheets in 34 appearances. His arrival at Holywell is expected to provide strong competition for first-choice goalkeeper John Danby.

The shot-stopper also brings top-flight experience, having previously featured for Newtown during the 2024/25 Cymru Premier season.

Commenting on the move, he said: “New chapter, can’t wait to get started back in the Welsh Prem.”