Teen talent Kieran Wilson signs first pro deal at City

Exeter City forward Kieran Wilson has signed his first professional contract with the club, joining Gary Caldwell’s first-team squad ahead of pre-season.

The 18-year-old Scotsman, who can play across the frontline, initially joined the Grecians as a scholar in 2023, having moved to Devon from Airdrieonians on the recommendation of former City striker Alan Gow.

Wilson made his senior debut last September, coming off the bench against Tottenham Hotspur U21 in the EFL Trophy. He also found the net during pre-season, scoring a well-taken goal against Yeovil Town.

“It’s a very proud moment for me and my family,” said Wilson. “I moved down here and that’s what I’ve been working towards these last couple of years, so I’m very proud to finally become a professional football player. The hard work starts now – I want to achieve a lot more during my time here.”

Wilson was a regular for City’s U18s last season, initially playing out wide before transitioning into a central striker role. He also had a loan spell with Plymouth Parkway, where he scored his first senior goal in a match against Merthyr Tydfil.

Academy Director Arran Pugh praised the young forward’s development.

“He’s massive – around 6 foot 4 – and really quick, one of the fastest we’ve had through the academy,” said Pugh. “He started out as a winger, but we see his long-term potential as a number nine. Over the last few months he’s really been working on his game and has scored some great goals.”

Wilson has returned to Devon in time for pre-season training, which kicks off tomorrow at the Cliff Hill Training Ground.

City have also announced that Fearne Slocombe has rejoined Exeter City Women on a permanent basis, subject to FA registration. The 19-year-old midfielder originally joined the club on loan from Bristol City in January and made 10 appearances last season.

Fearne is the third confirmed addition to Exeter City Women’s squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, joining as part of a wider effort to build on last season’s impressive fourth-place finish in the Southern Premier Division.

With more signings expected over the summer, the squad is already shaping up strongly for what promises to be another exciting year.