Harrogate Town signs Middlesbrough defender Archie Baptiste on permanent deal

Harrogate Town have completed the permanent signing of 20‑year‑old centre‑back Archie Baptiste from Middlesbrough. The defender agreed to a two‑year contract for an undisclosed fee and will join the National League side to gain regular senior football.

Baptiste began his youth career at Chelsea, later moved to Tottenham Hotspur and joined Middlesbrough on a free transfer a year ago. He made his first‑team debut for Middlesbrough under manager Kim Hellberg against Derby County and spent the latter part of the previous season on loan at Rochdale. Harrogate’s head of player recruitment Lloyd Kerry praised his “high potential”, noting his communication, aggression and ball‑playing ability.

The move gives Baptiste the opportunity for consistent game time, while Harrogate adds a defender they believe can adapt quickly to their system.