Bolton Wanderers is delighted to confirm the signing of defender Richard Taylor on a three-year contract, subject to international clearance. The 24-year-old joins the Whites as the fourth new face at the Toughsheet Community Stadium this summer.
The London-born player, standing at 6ft 2ins, offers a strong aerial capability and calmness when in possession. Primarily a central defender, his ability to also play at left back brings valuable balance and options to the squad.
Taylor comes to Wanderers with considerable experience from his time in Scotland’s top division with St Mirren, where he was a consistent and dependable figure. During the 2023/2024 season, he made 41 appearances for "the Buddies" in all competitions, including their UEFA Conference League qualification games. He was a mainstay in their Scottish Premiership line-up, with 34 league starts, contributing to their defensive strength.
His footballing development took place at Burnley's academy before he gained early senior experience in League One with Southend United. His career also featured a very successful spell with League of Ireland team Waterford FC, where his performances were key to his move to Scotland.
Head Coach Steven Schumacher said: "Richard is a defender with an excellent physical make-up – tall, strong and he will give us a significant presence in both penalty boxes.
“What also appealed to us is his comfort on the ball and his ability to start play from defensive areas. Being naturally left-sided, he gives us further choices across our back line.
“Richard has gained useful experience in the Scottish Premiership, playing many games and showing he can perform consistently at that level.”
Speaking about his move to Wanderers, Taylor added: "Joining Bolton Wanderers is a massive opportunity for me and I’m absolutely buzzing to be here.
“You can feel the ambition around the place and I want to be a big part of taking this historic club forward.
“I’ve heard all about the incredible support at the Toughsheet Community Stadium and the thought of playing in front of that crowd, helping to make it a real fortress for us, is something special.
“I’m a defender who will put my body on the line, and I’m ready to bring that commitment, that desire to be solid at the back and help us achieve our goals.
“I can’t wait to pull on that white shirt and give everything for Bolton Wanderers."
Richard is available for Player Sponsorship for the 2025/26 season. For more information, please contact Tia Davies on tdavies@bwfc.co.uk or 01204 327562.
Taylor is the club’s fourth signing of the summer transfer window, joining Sam Dalby, Xavier Simons and Charlie Warren.
An exclusive first interview with Richard will be available for supporters to watch on Wanderers TV shortly. His squad number will be announced in due course.