Doncaster Rovers promotion-winner Joseph Olowu makes abrupt Stockport County exit to join Leyton Orient
A Doncaster Rovers promotion-winner has left Stockport County just one year into his contract
Doncaster Rovers promotion-winner Joseph Olowu has swapped League One clubs for the second consecutive summer.
The 26-year-old was a key figure in Doncaster’s League Two title triumph in 2025, helping Rovers secure promotion to the third tier in his fourth season on the books.
A centre-back by trade, Olowu proved popular in South Yorkshire and amassed a total of 144 appearances for the club.
There was disappointment when he departed in the aftermath of promotion, linking up with Doncaster’s new League One rivals Stockport County.
He made 41 appearances for the Hatters last term, helping them reach the play-off final, but has left just one year into his three-year contract.
Joseph Olowu makes Leyton Orient move
Olowu has sealed a switch to Leyton Orient for an undisclosed fee, penning a three-year deal at Brisbane Road.
He said: “This move feels so right for me and I am very excited to get started. I grew up wanting to play football and this isn't a job to me; it is a passion.
“This is what I love to do and our fans are going to get commitment from me, 110 per cent, and lots of energy and passion. I am a very athletic defender who likes to defend first and foremost but I am composed on the ball too.
“I want to be an influence on the team on and off the pitch and be a positive character around the place.”
Doncaster Rovers reunion
The move has reunited Olowu with Orient boss Richie Wellens, who was at the Doncaster helm when the defender was signed from Arsenal in 2021.
Wellens said: “Jo is someone I signed from Arsenal and gave him his league debut. He’s won a promotion with Doncaster and been part of a team, in Stockport, that was successful last season.
“He is a good size and his data on duels is very good, both aerially and on the ground. He is quick and allows us to be very aggressive when we want to win possession back. We feel like we can leave Jo one-vs-one and, at 26, he is still on an upwards curve in terms of his career.
“On a personal note, he is a brilliant lad and a great character who will come in and be one of our leaders. This is a really good signing for us.”