LEWIS BRUNT competed for promotion against Wrexham last season but the defender is now looking forward to challenging for more honours with the Reds.

The 23-year-old has arrived at The Racecourse from Leicester City for an undisclosed fee, putting pen to paper on a three-year contract.

He enjoyed a successful season-long loan at Mansfield Town in 2023-24, making 40 appearances in all competitions as the Stags secured a top-three finish in League Two to clinch automatic promotion alongside runners-up Wrexham.

Although Mansfield were eager to keep Brunt, who had a year left on his contract with Leicester, on a permanent deal he has decided to join the Reds and the centre-back is hoping to experience more success with his new club.

"I am over the moon to get it all sorted," said Brunt, who lined up for Mansfield against Wrexham twice last season and was an unused substitute in the other meeting between the sides.

"It was a club I was always interested in joining.

"I had another year left on my contract at Leicester but Wrexham is a club with a rich history and great ambition.

"Ultimately, that's why I picked Wrexham because of the ambition of the club.

"Speaking to the gaffer and where this club wants to be in the next few years is something that I want to be a part of.

"For me to join was a no-brainer. It is a joy to be here and I can't wait to get started and get going.

"This will be my first taste of League One so if I can replicate the success of last season with Wrexham, I will be over the moon."

Mansfield challenged for the League Two title and eventually finished third behind champions Stockport County and Wrexham.

"It was very successful for me at Mansfield and I enjoyed my time there," said Brunt, who made eight first-team appearances for Leicester, including two in the Premier League, and also had two loan spells with Gloucester City since starting his career with Aston Villa.

"We achieved a promotion which was a great feeling.

"It was very exciting for all three clubs at the back of the season."
Brunt described himself as a "ball player" when asked what are his key attributes.

"The fans can expect someone who likes to play," added Brunt.

"I class myself as a ball player and someone who is calm under pressure but I also enjoy the defending side of it and making blocks and all that stuff.

"Hopefully I can come in and stamp my mark on the squad, and get some games in."