Former Ross County defender Alex Iacovitti has secured a summer switch to English League One side Port Vale.
The powerful centre half was a consistent performer for the Staggies over the past three years, following his move from Oldhan, with 116 games and 12 goals to his name for the Premiership outfit.
Earlier this month, the popular player confirmed his departure from the Global Energy Stadium, as he praised County as a club and its supporters.
The 25-year-old, whose career kicked off at Nottingham Forest, has agreed a two-year deal with the Valiants from July 1, subject to EFL, FA and SPFL approval.
Instant attraction for Alex Iacovitti
Iacovitti explained why he opted to make the move to the ambitious club which finished 18th in English football’s third-tier last term.
He said: “I am really excited to get going, I can’t wait to meet all of the lads.
“When I spoke to the gaffer (Andy Crosby) and director of football (Dave Flitcroft) about where the club wants to go and where they’re heading, as well as the standards of the club and everything that is already in place here, it makes you want to be a part of it.
“I’ve spoken to other clubs, but when I came to visit Vale Park, I had a walk around the stadium and I just instantly got that feeling, that buzz, and I knew instantly that this is the place for me.”
Port Vale FC are delighted to announce that Defender, Alex Iacovitti, has agreed a two-year deal with the Valiants.
Welcome to the Vale, Alex! 👋 #PVFC
— Port Vale FC (@OfficialPVFC) June 23, 2023
‘Fearless and loves to defend’ – boss
Port Vale manager Crosby spoke of the player’s qualities.
He said: “I’m delighted that Alex is joining us at Vale Park, which will see us add a player with strength and physical presence to our defensive unit.
“Alex is fearless and loves to defend. Also, he is a major threat in attacking set-play situations and has the ability to score goals.
“He has the drive and determination we want to see in our players and he will be a great addition on and off the pitch.”
Port Vale won the race for defender
Flitcroft underlined that he felt the transfer was a perfect match from day one.
He said: “I am really pleased that we have secured Alex’s services for at least the next two seasons.
“Alex is a passionate, dedicated player and deservedly attracted interest from a number of clubs at this level, which speaks of the quality that he possesses on the field, but ever since his first visit to the club, he knew that Vale Park was the place that he wanted to be and he has the drive and quality to grow with the club as we take the next steps in our journey.
“Equally, Alex is also a fantastic person off the field, and he possesses the leadership attributes that we demand to be part of what we’re building at the club.
“Alex loves defending and also loves being a threat in the opposition’s box from set pieces. We lacked size throughout or back line last season and he offers that added presence to the squad.”
🆕 WELCOME, KEITH WATSON!
We are delighted to announce the signing of 𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲-𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 Keith Watson on a one year deal.
Keith is an experienced defender having played for Dundee United, Hibs, St Mirren, St Johnstone & Ross County
🤝 Welcome to our club, Keith.#YouBelong pic.twitter.com/YP49doC4co
— Raith Rovers Football Club (@RaithRovers) June 23, 2023
Raith Rovers land Keith Watson
Meanwhile, former Ross County captain Keith Watson has joined Scottish Championship side Raith Rovers on a one-year deal.
The 33-year-old former Dundee United, Hibs and St Mirren defender left the Dingwall side at the end of the season once his contract expired after five years in the Highlands.
Rovers manager Ian Murray confirmed they had been tracking Watson for some time as they look to have a real go at promotion next term.
He said: “We were looking for that bit of experience and I know Keith from his time playing at St Mirren with me.
“He’s had a good career in the SPFL Premiership with Dundee Utd, Hibs and Ross County.
“We identified Keith a number of months ago as a potential signing, and he’ll bring solid centre half experience to Stark’s Park”
