Swindon Town have confirmed the signing of experienced defender Ryan Tafazolli from Wycombe Wanderers on a one-year deal.
The 33-year-old centre-back departs Adams Park after four years to become part of Ian Holloway’s squad at the County Ground.
End of a Wycombe Chapter
Tafazolli joined Wycombe in 2020 following his release from Hull City and quickly established himself as a reliable presence in Gareth Ainsworth’s back line. He made 128 appearances for the Chairboys, scoring 10 goals across all competitions.
His time in Buckinghamshire included 20 appearances during the club’s debut season in the Championship, as well as memorable goals such as a header against Milton Keynes Dons in the 2022 League One play-off semi-final. He also netted twice against Crewe Alexandra in October 2021, including a dramatic stoppage-time winner.
However, opportunities became limited during the 2024–25 campaign. Tafazolli featured just five times before being loaned to Hong Kong Premier League side Lee Man in January, where he played 15 games and scored once. On his return to Wycombe this summer, his former squad number six had already been allocated to new signing Taylor Allen, with the veteran instead handed number 35.
Fresh Start at Swindon
Swindon finalised the deal this week as part of a busy end to the transfer window. Tafazolli becomes the second major addition of the week following striker Ollie Palmer’s imminent arrival from Wrexham, with Flynn looking to add both steel and experience to his side.
Speaking after the move was announced, Tafazolli said:
“I’m really pleased to be joining Swindon Town at this stage of my career. This is a club with huge potential and passionate supporters, and I want to play my part in helping the team achieve success this season. I feel ready to bring my experience to the squad, support the younger players, and give everything for the badge.”
His last Wycombe appearance fittingly came against Swindon in the EFL Trophy in December 2024, a 2–1 defeat for the Chairboys at Adams Park. Now, he will be hoping to play a key role in pushing the Robins toward the top end of League Two.
Writer’s View
For Swindon, the signing of Tafazolli represents an important injection of experience and leadership into a squad that has endured its share of injuries and upheaval. While his game time dwindled at Wycombe, his proven pedigree in both League One and the Championship makes him an excellent fit at County Ground level.
For the player, the move offers regular football and the chance to take on a mentoring role, while for Swindon it provides defensive solidity and aerial threat. If he stays fit, Tafazolli could be one of the most influential signings of the Robins’ window.
