Oldham Athletic have signed defender Dynel Simeu on a short-term deal.
The 23-year-old centre back joins Latics on a free, having agreed an initial contract to January 3, 2026.
Born in Southampton, Simeu's career began with Chelsea's youth team before returning to Saints in 2021 for a reported £1.5million fee, having made 25 appearances for Chelsea's Under 23s.
In his three years at Southampton Simeu featured regularly for their U23 side, and gained valuable first team experience with three loan spells in the Football League - at Carlisle United, Tranmere Rovers and Morecambe in League One, where he made 18 appearances.
However, the former England U17 and U19 international's progress was halted by a ruptured Achilles in August 2023.
Once fit, Simeu pursued his career abroad, and joins Latics afer a spell with Albanian club Teuta.
“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to join Oldham," he said after signing.
“It’s been a challenging journey the past year, but I feel ready to get back to my best and help the team in any way I can.
“The club has great ambition and I’m excited to be part of it.
"I've worked with the manager, I like what he's about so hopefully this can be a great match."
Latics manager Micky Mellon added: “Dynel is a powerful and composed defender with great potential.
“I’ve had him at Tranmere and he’s had an excellent upbringing in top academies and valuable experience in the Football League.
“We believe this is a great environment for him to kick on and show what he can do."
Simeu will wear the number 40 shirt.
