Finnish defender Arttu Hoskonen has left Stockport County by mutual consent. The 29-year-old former Finland international made only one appearance for the Hatters after joining from Polish side Cracovia in June 2025.
His departure was confirmed by the club this week. Hoskonen's sole outing came in an EFL Trophy match against Everton's Under-21s on 18 August, where he played the first 45 minutes before being substituted at half-time in a game County went on to win. He had signed a two-year deal upon his arrival last summer.
The decision for Hoskonen to leave Edgeley Park comes after a brief and unsuccessful stint. His only competitive action was that 45-minute debut in the cup competition. With the club now sitting third in League One after a strong start to the season, the squad has moved in a different direction. County have taken six points from their first three games, scoring nine goals and conceding just four. They are only one point behind early leaders Blackpool.
This form suggests manager Dave Challinor has a settled defensive unit, leaving little room for a player who failed to break into the matchday squad for league fixtures.
Arttu Hoskonen arrived at Stockport with experience in Polish football and at international level. He joined from Ekstraklasa club Cracovia, where he had been a regular before his move to England. The centre-back also earned caps for the Finland national team earlier in his career. At 29, he was expected to provide defensive depth and experience for County's League One campaign.
His signing last summer was part of the club's recruitment drive following promotion, but it ultimately did not work out for either party. The mutual consent agreement allows Hoskonen to seek a new club immediately.
Hoskonen's exit frees up a squad place and likely some budget as County continue their season. The Hatters have started brightly and their immediate focus is on maintaining their promotion push. They face a tough away match against Luton Town on Wednesday, 2 September.
Luton currently sit 13th in the table, making it an important fixture for Stockport to consolidate their top-three position. Fans can check the full schedule on our fixtures list. With a goal difference of +5, the team's attacking prowess has been clear, but maintaining defensive solidity will be key. The latest standings show how tight the early season race is at the top of League One.
The club will now assess their options in the defensive department ahead of the September transfer window, but for now, the squad must prepare for the trip to Kenilworth Road without Hoskonen.
