Matt Baker to Leave Newport County After Rejecting Contract
Defender Matt Baker will depart Newport County this summer after declining a contract extension from the League Two club.
The 23-year-old centre-back played a pivotal role in Newport's successful fight against relegation to the National League, having taken on the captaincy during the campaign.
Baker, a former Wales Under-21 international who received a call-up to the senior Wales squad in the summer of 2024, was offered new terms by Newport but has chosen to move on at the conclusion of his current contract.
This marks a second significant setback for manager Christian Fuchs' squad following winger Bobby Kamwa's decision to reject a new contract offer.
"Newport County can confirm that Matt Baker has decided to explore new opportunities after turning down an improved contract offer at Rodney Parade,"
the club stated.
Baker's Career at Newport County
Baker initially joined Newport on loan from Stoke City in January 2023 and returned for a second loan spell the following season. During his time at the club, he contributed to a notable FA Cup run that ended with a defeat to Manchester United.
Occasionally utilized in midfield, Baker completed a permanent transfer from Stoke in the summer of 2024 and accumulated a total of 144 appearances for Newport County.
Squad Changes and Future Plans
Alongside Baker, winger Bobby Kamwa has also decided to leave Newport County. The club recently announced ongoing contract discussions with defenders Cameron Evans and Ciaran Brennan, as well as midfielders Michael Spellman and Keenan Patten.
Newport, who are actively seeking investment, face a summer rebuilding phase after narrowly avoiding relegation from the Football League.
"Newport County now continues planning for the upcoming campaign as squad preparation and recruitment work continues."
