Grimsby Town have secured the signing of 21-year-old forward Sonny Finch from South Shields for a club record fee, marking the player’s return to the English Football League (EFL) after a successful stint in the National League North. Finch agreed to a three-year contract with the League Two side after completing a medical and negotiating personal terms.
Finch’s transfer came after South Shields activated a release clause in his contract, prompting the Mariners to part ways with one of their standout performers. The young forward joined South Shields permanently in March 2026 following a loan spell that began in January. Since then, he made a significant impact, netting seven goals and providing eight assists in 23 appearances during the latter half of last season.
South Shields manager Mike Williamson expressed mixed emotions about the transfer, praising Finch’s character and contributions on and off the pitch while acknowledging the bittersweet nature of losing a key player. “It’s a brilliant move for him,” Williamson said, adding that Finch has been vital both in matches and within the team dynamic. “We’re very disappointed to lose him because he’s an excellent human being and a really talented footballer as well. We all wish him the best and hope he excels at the next level.”
After a strong start to the 2026-27 campaign, including scoring the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Scarborough Athletic and playing pivotal roles in wins against Chorley and Morecambe, Finch attracted the interest of Grimsby Town manager David Artell. The move reunites Finch with the EFL, where he last played senior football during a loan spell at MK Dons in the first half of the 2024-25 season.
Speaking on his transfer, Finch described joining Grimsby as an exciting opportunity. “Grimsby is a massive football club and I’m excited by the opportunity to come here, work hard and show the supporters what I can do,” he said. Finch also highlighted his readiness to step up after gaining experience in senior football over recent years and expressed enthusiasm about contributing to the club’s ambitions with goals and strong performances.
The acquisition of Finch reflects Grimsby Town’s efforts to strengthen their squad with young talent capable of making an immediate impact in League Two, as they aim to maintain their competitive edge. The club and player alike are hopeful the partnership will prove fruitful in the upcoming seasons.