Stockport County have confirmed the permanent departure of defender Joseph Olowu to Leyton Orient, reuniting him with head coach Richie Wellens who first signed him at Doncaster Rovers in 2021.
What happened?
Leyton Orient have completed a permanent transfer for centre-back Joseph Olowu from Stockport County, with the 26-year-old agreeing a three-year deal. The O's announced the deal on Thursday, marking their seventh signing of the summer transfer window. Olowu's last campaign saw him make 31 league appearances for Stockport as they reached the League One play-off final, with his move to Edgeley Park coming just 12 months after he joined from Doncaster Rovers.
Wellens, who also oversaw Olowu's 126 appearances at Doncaster - including their 2025 League Two title win - praised the defender's physical profile and duel data. “Joseph is a good size and his data on duels is very good, both aerially and on the ground,” Wellens said. “He is quick and allows us to be very aggressive when we want to win possession back. On a personal note, he is a brilliant lad and a great character who will come in and be one of our leaders.”
Stockport sit third in League One on 77 points from 46 games, seven ahead of fourth-placed Bolton Wanderers, with their recent form reading WLLWW after beating Bristol City 2-0 on 17 July 2026.
Why it matters for Stockport County
Olowu's exit is a blow for Stockport, who finished sixth last season and pushed for a play-off spot in 2025-26. The defender was a key part of their backline, starting 31 of their 46 league games and helping them to a +13 goal difference. His departure leaves a gap in defence, though the club have moved quickly in the market to address it.
The loss also comes as Stockport prepare for their next fixture against Preston at home on 1 August 2026. They sit 26 points behind league leaders Lincoln City, with their summer signings needing to gel fast if they're to keep pace in the promotion race.
What comes next?
Stockport will now turn their attention to the transfer window, with manager Dave Challinor likely to target defensive reinforcements to cover Olowu's absence. The club's recent form - three wins from their last five - suggests they're in good shape, but the play-off push demands consistency.
Olowu, meanwhile, returns to the club where Wellens first handed him regular football. His arrival at Leyton Orient adds depth to their centre-back options, with the O's sitting 11th in League One as they aim to push on under their head coach.
Stockport County travel to Preston on 1 August, with a win needed to kick off their new campaign on a high note.
