FC Halifax Town have completed the signing of forward Conor Carty, a former Bolton Wanderers youngster, on a free transfer announced on 7 July 2026. The 23‑year‑old arrives after a spell in the League of Ireland and is expected to add physical presence to a side sitting 8th in the National League with 70 points from 46 games.

Who is Conor Carty?

Carty joined Bolton’s B‑team in 2022 after developing in Wolves’ academy. He made a single first‑team appearance, coming off the bench to score in the Vertu Trophy against Tranmere Rovers. Loan periods at Oldham Athletic, Gateshead and St Patrick’s Athletic gave him regular minutes, while a brief stint at Doncaster Rovers ended early due to an ACL injury that kept him out for most of a year. He returned to St Patrick’s on a permanent deal in January 2025 and later played for Waterford before heading back to England.

Why does he matter for Halifax?

Assistant manager Pablo Mills said Carty is “a very physical striker who can hold the ball up and use his body,” adding that his clever movement should translate well from the Irish game to the National League. Halifax finished eighth last season, missing the playoffs, and have scored 69 goals while conceding 66 this campaign – a +3 goal difference. With the team currently 38 points behind leaders York, fresh firepower could be the edge needed to climb the table.

How does he fit into the squad?

Manager John McGrath confirmed the club had been tracking Carty for months. “Once I heard John was interested, it was an easy decision,” Carty told club channels, noting the warm welcome from the players. The Whites are on a two‑game winning run, with recent form (last five) recorded as 2W‑1D‑2L, most recent result a 1‑0 victory over Woking on 25 April 2026. Carty will compete for a starting spot alongside veteran striker Ryan Taylor, offering a different style that could diversify Halifax’s attack.

What’s next for the Shaymen?

Halifax’s next fixture is against Aldershot Town on 12 July 2026, where Carty will be expected to make his debut. If he can replicate his debut goal‑scoring instinct, the club may see an uptick in their goal tally, helping them close the 38‑point gap to York. The signing also signals Halifax’s intent to strengthen the squad ahead of the final third of the season, aiming to push for a playoff place.

The club’s recent form, a 1‑0 win over Woking, and a solid defensive record of 66 goals conceded this season, suggest a platform on which Carty can thrive. Fans will be watching closely to see if his Irish league experience can translate into goals that move Halifax Town up the National League ladder.