Former Lincoln City defender Harry Boyes has completed a permanent move to York City after leaving Southend United for an undisclosed fee.
The Minstermen have confirmed the signing of the 24-year-old, who returns to the EFL following York’s dramatic National League title success last season.
Boyes had attracted interest from both York and Notts County after an impressive campaign at Roots Hall. Southend initially appeared reluctant to lose the left wing-back, who remained under contract until 2027, but a deal has now been agreed with Scott Lindsey’s side.
The former Imp made 51 appearances for Southend, scoring once and providing 14 assists as the Shrimpers reached the National League play-offs and lifted the FA Trophy at Wembley.
Despite admitting that leaving Southend had been a difficult decision, Boyes explained that the opportunity to return to the Football League and move closer to his family was too significant to reject.
Speaking after completing the transfer, the defender told the Echo that he would leave Roots Hall with overwhelmingly positive memories.
“I can’t say a bad word about Southend, it’s probably one of the most enjoyable, if not the most enjoyable, club I’ve been at in my whole career.
“Last year, the lads and everything about the club, I couldn’t say a bad word about. The fanbase too, it’s a massive club.”
Boyes had joined Southend after leaving Sheffield United permanently during the summer of 2025. He quickly established himself as one of the National League’s most productive wing-backs, missing only a small number of league matches during his sole season with the club.
His new side will begin the campaign in League Two after accumulating 108 points and scoring 114 league goals on their way to the National League title. Boyes believes York’s ambitions extend beyond simply consolidating following promotion.
“It’s the ambition the club has too that’s appealing, he said.
“It’s not going to just settle in League Two. They’re very ambitious to go again and again and that’s something I want to be a part of.
“It’s been hectic and non-stop, but I feel like I’ve chosen the right club. I’m excited for a new challenge and hopefully it’s a very successful one.”
Boyes joined the Imps on loan from Sheffield United in January 2023, having spent the opening months of the campaign with Forest Green Rovers.
He made his City debut immediately, starting the 2-1 defeat at Charlton Athletic, and went on to make 18 League One appearances during the second half of the season.
Although he did not score during his time at Sincil Bank, Boyes offered energy and attacking width from left wing-back before returning to Bramall Lane at the conclusion of the campaign.
Loan spells with Wycombe Wanderers and Fleetwood Town followed before his permanent switch to Southend. His performances in Essex have now earned him another opportunity in the EFL, with Boyes becoming part of York’s plans for their first season back in League Two.
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