Veteran striker Jayden Stockley signs two-year deal with AFC Wimbledon

AFC Wimbledon have signed striker Jayden Stockley from Port Vale on a two‑year contract, making the 32‑year‑old’s 15th club. The agreement, announced as the club’s sixth summer signing, did not disclose any transfer fee.

Jonnie Jackson said the signing was a priority, adding, “Jayden is a great signing for us, he's a player that I know really well having worked with him previously.” He noted that a lot of hard work went into finalising the deal and highlighted Stockley’s determination.

Stockley arrives at the Cherry Red Records Stadium under Jackson’s management, reuniting the pair after their spell together at Charlton Athletic. The veteran forward’s career has also included spells at Bournemouth, Aberdeen, Exeter City, and Preston.

In the 2022‑23 League One campaign, Stockley featured in 22 matches for Port Vale, starting nine and scoring three goals as the club slipped into the fourth tier. Those figures underline his experience at the professional level.

Wimbledon’s recruitment reflects a broader trend in the English lower leagues, where clubs secure seasoned forwards on short‑term deals to strengthen squads after recent relegations and promotion battles. Adding Stockley provides the Dons with proven firepower for the upcoming season.

For Stockley, the move offers a chance to work again with a familiar manager and to continue his journeyman career at a club eager to climb the league ladder. The two‑year deal gives him stability while allowing Wimbledon to benefit from his veteran presence.