Peterborough United have secured the services of 23-year-old midfielder Matt Garbett, a player with experience in the Eredivisie and an international pedigree with 30 New Zealand caps.
The club have signed the former Torino man on a two-year contract with an option for a third.
Ferguson thrilled with Garbett addition as Posh continue recruitment drive
Garbett spent the second half of the 2022–23 season on loan at NAC Breda before making the move permanent last summer. He now becomes Posh’s latest summer addition as Darren Ferguson continues to reshape his squad for the 2025/26 League One campaign.
“Matt comes with a good pedigree having played at the top level in Holland,” said Ferguson. “I know that is a high level, certainly above League One for sure. He is a New Zealand international and quite a few clubs were in for him… He can play anywhere in midfield – 6, 8, 10 – and he’s a good size, plays off both feet and will definitely improve us.”
Born in London but raised in New Zealand, Garbett developed through the Olé Football Academy and made his senior breakthrough with Western Suburbs before short spells at Team Wellington and Falkenbergs FF in Sweden. A strong showing at the 2019 U17 World Cup earned him a move to Serie A side Torino, where he featured in the Coppa Italia but found opportunities in the league limited.
His versatility and athleticism were key to Peterborough’s interest, and Ferguson has confirmed that Garbett fits the mould of the midfield profile the club have been chasing throughout the window.
“I wanted an athletic one and he brings good quality. He can play left or right and I’m pleased to get him in. He won’t be the last one either – we are still actively looking to improve.”
Garbett himself is keen to settle quickly and stake his claim for a place in the squad, particularly with the 2026 World Cup in mind. New Zealand will be looking to qualify for the tournament in North America next summer, and the midfielder is eager to stay sharp and involved at club level.
“This is a big year for me personally with the World Cup next summer,” Garbett said. “I want to be playing and contributing, but for now it’s about settling in, getting to know the players and the city, and going from there.”
He will wear the number 28 shirt for the 2025/26 season.
Writer’s View
This is a savvy piece of business from Peterborough United. Matt Garbett may not be a household name in England, but his pedigree speaks for itself: Serie A experience, a strong track record in the Eredivisie, and 30 international caps at just 23 years old.
With several more signings expected, this could prove a crucial addition as Posh look to build a squad capable of competing at the top end of League One once again. If Garbett adapts quickly, he has the potential to become one of the standout signings in the division this summer.
