Walsall have confirmed the signing of defender Elicha Ahui on an 18-month contract, with the option of a further year, following the expiry of his deal with Drogheda United.The 21-year-old will immediately return to the League of Ireland side on a loan deal until January 2026, although we will have the option to recall the player during the summer of 2025.
Ahui, who is predominantly a right-back, has had two spells with the Drogs, with the most recent coming in 2024, which proved to be a memorable spell as he was Man of the Match in their FAI Cup Final victory over Derry City.
His first spell at Weavers Park came in the 2023 season, where he played 20 times, scoring once.
That initial loan move to Ireland came from then=parent club Lincoln City, where he began his career.
His only senior appearance for the Imps came when against Newcastle United Under 21s in the Vertu Trophy.
Ahui has also gained experience in loan spells with Gainsborough Trinity, Peterborough Sports and Ayr United.
Speaking via the club's official website, Head Coach Mat Sadler admitted he is excited by his latest acquisition, he said: "Elicha is a fantastic athlete who competes well defensively and is another player who fits perfectly with the model of young, hungry players who want to improve and get better.
"It is also another example of the collaboration between Walsall and Drogheda United.
"Elicha had a fantastic end to the season at Drogheda, and we look forward to seeing him build on that in the coming season.
"We will monitor his progress closely - alongside Douglas James-Taylor’s - and wish him well for pre-season training in Ireland."
Elisha welcomed the opportunity to sign for the Saddlers, he added: "I’m very excited to be here.
"It’s a good club and I know a couple of people who have come here, so I’m happy to be here.
"I’m athletic, strong and very good defensively. Hopefully we get promoted, but I’m looking forward to coming back here and helping the team out."
The transfer is subject to international, FA and EFL clearance.
