Wimbledon bet on promotion pedigree with Tilley’s three‑year deal

AFC Wimbledon have secured 27‑year‑old winger James Tilley on a three‑year contract, completing his permanent return from Wycombe Wanderers for an undisclosed fee. The three‑year deal gives the Dons a proven promotion hero as they look to cement their place in League One.

Johnnie Jackson’s side relied on Tilley to clinch promotion to League One in the 2024‑25 campaign. The winger delivered decisive goals against Accrington Stanley and Morecambe on the road to Wembley.

It marks his third spell with the Dons after a loan stint at Plough Lane last season. A Getty Images photograph captured the celebration of those crucial strikes, and during his loan he also scored a long‑range winner at Mansfield Town that was voted the club’s goal of the season.

He first joined Wimbledon permanently in the summer of 2023, tallying 115 appearances and 19 goals across his initial two spells. After departing for Wycombe Wanderers last summer, he returned on loan before completing the permanent move.

"I'm absolutely buzzing," Tilley said on the club website. "This is the one club that feels like home for me and my family; I've been my happiest playing football."

The three‑year contract secures a proven promotion hero as the Dons look to consolidate their League One status. Wycombe, meanwhile, lose a versatile winger who helped them retain their division place after promotion.