MK Dons are reportedly closing in on the signing of Notts County midfielder Dan Crowley, as the League Two club looks to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window.
The 27-year-old has been linked with a move to Stadium MK before, notably during the summer, but the transfer failed to materialise. Crowley showcased his talents to Dons fans during their Boxing Day clash at Stadium MK. His stellar performance, which included a goal and an assist, was instrumental in Notts County’s 2-0 victory. Across 19 appearances this season, the influential midfielder has tallied four goals and six assists, highlighting his creative prowess.
A Proven Performer
Having joined Notts County in the summer of 2023 from Morecambe, Crowley enjoyed a prolific first season at Meadow Lane, scoring 15 goals. His technical ability and vision have made him a standout in League Two, attracting the interest of several clubs.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke has suggested that Crowley is “poised to sign” for the Dons, where he would reunite with his former teammate Aaron Nemane, who made the same switch earlier this season. Should the deal go through, Crowley would become the second addition for MK Dons in the current transfer window, following the arrival of Jay Williams.
Meanwhile, the Dons have bid farewell to three players in January: Sonny Finch returned to parent club Middlesbrough, Tommy Leigh departed for Bradford City, and Stephen Wearne reunited with ex-Dons boss Mike Williamson at Carlisle United.
The potential arrival of Crowley could add much-needed creativity and experience to MK Dons as they aim to climb the League Two table in the second half of the season.
Dan Crowley
Crowley began his youth career at Aston Villa before moving to Arsenal’s academy in 2013. Despite high expectations, Crowley did not make a first-team appearance for Arsenal and spent time on loan at Barnsley, Oxford United, and Dutch clubs Go Ahead Eagles and Willem II. In 2017, he joined Willem II on a permanent basis, making 44 appearances and scoring five goals over two seasons.
Returning to England in 2019, Crowley signed with Birmingham City, where he made 41 league appearances. He later had loan spells at Hull City and Cheltenham Town. In 2023, Crowley joined Morecambe, contributing two goals in 21 appearances before moving to Notts County.
Writer’s View
Crowley’s impending move to MK Dons could prove to be a masterstroke. His ability to influence games in the final third is well-documented, and pairing him with Nemane once again could rejuvenate the Dons’ attacking options. For a side looking to make waves in League Two, Crowley’s acquisition could be the spark they need to make a serious push in the coming months.
