New signing Keenan Patten is eager to experience his first taste of League Two football after putting pen to paper on an 18-month deal with Newport County.
The 23-year-old midfielder joined the Exiles on deadline day and will add strength and depth to head coach Nelson Jardim’s midfield options.
Patten becomes the Exiles' sixth signing of the January transfer window following the arrivals of Lewis Webb, David Ajiboye, Tom Davies, Josh Martin, and Jaden Warner.
“I’m delighted to join the club and I’m really excited to get going,” Patten said after finalising his move.
“After a good spell at Barry, I’m looking forward to the challenge of League Two football.
“I’m thrilled to be here and more than ready to contribute.”
Patten began his career at Cardiff City’s academy at the age of nine, signing a scholarship in 2017 before earning a professional contract in 2019.
He had loan spells at Hereford FC in the National League North and Penybont, before making a permanent move to AFC Fylde in August 2022.
In June 2023, Patten joined Barry Town United, and he becomes the second player to move from the Cymru Premier to Newport County, following the summer arrival of Kai Whitmore.
“I’ve learned a lot over the last 18 months in the Cymru Premier,” Patten added.
“Since joining the league, I feel I’ve developed as both a player and a person. Seeing Kai’s progress has been great, and I’m excited for my opportunity here to see where we can go as a team.
“As a midfielder, I feel like I can play in a variety of midfield roles, both attacking and defensive.
"I’ve played in different positions at previous clubs, sometimes deeper, sometimes higher up the pitch, and I’m comfortable doing what’s asked of me.
“I’ve also played at Rodney Parade a few times and I know how special the atmosphere is.
"While I’m here, I’m going to to give 100%, the correct attitude and mindset and give it my all for the fans.”