Notts County Complete Signing of Stoke City Midfielder Darius Lipsiuc on Long-Term Deal
Notts County have strengthened their squad ahead of the new season by securing the permanent signing of midfielder Darius Lipsiuc from Stoke City for an undisclosed transfer fee.
The highly rated 20-year-old has put pen to paper on a three-year contract at Meadow Lane, with the club also retaining an option to extend the agreement by a further 12 months. The move brings an end to Lipsiuc’s two-year spell with Stoke City and offers the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international an opportunity to continue his development with regular first-team football.
Lipsiuc arrives at Notts County following an impressive campaign on loan at National League side Solihull Moors, where he emerged as one of the club’s standout performers. His contributions throughout the season earned him the Young Player of the Season award and attracted significant interest due to his consistent displays in midfield.
During his time at Solihull Moors, the talented youngster made 38 appearances and scored 10 goals, demonstrating not only his technical ability but also his attacking threat from midfield. His performances played a major role in raising his profile and ultimately convinced Notts County to make a permanent move for his services.
Speaking after the transfer was completed, Director of Football Richard Montague outlined why the club identified Lipsiuc as a key target. He praised the midfielder’s physical presence, versatility, and determination, describing him as a player capable of operating in several positions across the pitch.
Montague highlighted the youngster’s strength, athleticism, and ability to influence games both centrally and in wider areas. He also pointed to Lipsiuc’s goal-scoring record and relentless work ethic, expressing confidence that the player can continue to improve significantly over the coming years.
The move marks a new chapter in a career that has progressed steadily since Lipsiuc first emerged through the youth ranks at St Patrick’s Athletic in Ireland. Having made his senior debut for the Dublin club at just 17 years old, he quickly established himself as one of the country’s promising young talents.
His potential prompted Stoke City to sign him in 2024, with the Championship club viewing him as a player capable of developing into a future first-team option. However, despite showing promise at academy level and during loan spells, opportunities with Stoke’s senior side remained limited.
Lipsiuc made a single senior start for the Potters, featuring in an EFL Cup victory over Fleetwood Town. While first-team appearances were scarce, the midfielder continued to gain valuable experience through temporary moves away from the club, including spells with Walsall and Solihull Moors.
Stoke City confirmed the transfer in an official statement, announcing that the midfielder had completed a permanent switch to League One outfit Notts County. The club acknowledged his contribution during his time at the bet365 Stadium and reflected on his progress since making his senior debut in the Carabao Cup.
The statement also referenced his successful loan spell at Solihull Moors, where he became a regular starter and further enhanced his reputation through a series of strong performances. Stoke concluded by extending their best wishes to Lipsiuc as he embarks on the next stage of his professional career.
For Notts County, the signing represents an investment in a young player with considerable potential and valuable experience despite his age. With his energy, versatility, and proven ability to contribute goals from midfield, Lipsiuc is expected to become an important addition to the squad as the club prepares for the challenges of the upcoming campaign.
As Stoke City continue to reshape their squad during the summer transfer window, Lipsiuc’s departure is another example of the club’s efforts to streamline its roster while allowing promising young players to pursue opportunities elsewhere. For the midfielder, the move offers a platform to establish himself at senior level and continue the upward trajectory of a career that has already shown significant promise.I can also make it read like a professional newspaper feature of 700–900 words if you need something suitable for publication on a sports news website.
