Accrington Stanley have entered the race to sign Burnley striker Joe Westley, with the League Two outfit now vying for his services alongside several other clubs.
The 21-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Swindon Town and impressed despite limited opportunities, scoring three goals in just three starts from 17 appearances.
Wham Stadium Side Look to Beat Rivals to Westley’s Signature
Now, with Stanley looking to strengthen their frontline ahead of the 2025–26 campaign, reports suggest they’ve made Westley a target as manager John Doolan continues shaping his squad. It’s understood that a number of clubs have previously shown interest, including Wigan Athletic, Walsall, and Fleetwood Town, but Accrington are the latest to be credited with serious intent to bring him to the Wham Stadium.
Alan Nixon reported that Swindon had engaged in discussions earlier this summer but a deal failed to materialise amid concerns over game time. That could open the door for Stanley to offer a more prominent role, with Westley keen to establish himself as a regular starter.
Stanley’s Recruitment Strategy Focuses on Hungry Talent
For Accrington, the move would represent a continuation of their recent strategy, targeting young, ambitious players with Football League or Premier League academy pedigree. Westley fits the bill.
Now back with Burnley for pre-season, Westley has already found the net in a friendly against Huddersfield Town and made clear in club media that he’s ready for a step forward in his career. Reflecting on his time in League Two, he said:
“I went there to prove to myself that I could score goals at that level, and I did do that… so going into next year, I’ll make sure I rest but also come back firing.”
With Accrington still looking to boost their attacking options, a deal for Westley would be a strong signal of intent. His combination of physicality, technical quality, and a point to prove would make him a smart addition to a squad looking to climb the table after an inconsistent 2024–25 season.
Writer’s View
This is exactly the sort of signing that would suit Accrington Stanley—young, motivated, and with a taste of League Two football already under his belt. Joe Westley showed flashes of potential at Swindon but was never truly given the chance to start regularly. At Stanley, he could get that platform.
With the club known for nurturing players often overlooked elsewhere, a move to the Wham Stadium feels like a natural fit. If John Doolan can convince Westley he’ll be a focal point rather than just a squad player, Accrington could secure a forward capable of hitting double figures.
