AFC Fylde are delighted to announce the signing of Corey Whelan.

Whelan, 26, joins the Coasters following the expiry of his deal at Carlisle United, on a two-year deal with an option of a third year.

The Chester-born defender, who can also play in midfield, reunites with Chris Beech, having worked with the Coasters Head Coach during his stint at Brunton Park.

Former Republic of Ireland U21 international Whelan turned professional with Liverpool, coming through the Reds youth system, spending time on loan at Yeovil Town and Crewe Alexandra during the 2017/18 and 2018/19 seasons.

With over 100 EFL appearances under his belt in the colours of Yeovil Town, Crewe Alexandra, Wigan Athletic and Carlisle United, Whelan brings extensive experience to Beech’s team.

After departing Anfield in 2019, he swapped Merseyside for Stateside, when he signed for Phoenix Rising, competing in the USL Championship.

Having made 51 appearances in the second-tier of the American league system, Whelan returned to England, linking up with Wigan Athletic in January 2021.

Whelan played 10 games for the Latics, helping them retain their Sky Bet League One status.

In July 2021, he moved to Carlisle United, becoming an important member of the Cumbrians team.

Whelan was a part of the team who won promotion up to Sky Bet League One through the play-offs under the Wembley Stadium arch when Paul Simpson’s United defeated Stockport County on penalties in May 2023.

Corey featured for Carlisle on 65 occasions in Sky Bet League One and Sky Bet League Two, and now signs for AFC Fylde, as Beech builds his squad for the 2024/25 Vanarama National League campaign.

On signing his contract at Mill Farm, Whelan said: “I’m really excited for the season ahead. It got done relatively quickly. I always had it in the back of my mind that it was an option, so once we’d spoken and agreed, I was excited to get it over the line and get started.

“I’d worked with the manager before, we’ve always been in close contact since he left Carlisle, so we spoke and interacted, then we got it over the line, so it’s great to be here.

“The project really excites me, I came to have a look round, there’s loads of pro’s as to why I wanted to come here. Like I said, it’s a project moving forward that we want to be successful.

“I’m a passionate player. I give everything when I step out onto the field, and to be 100% and all in. I like to get on the ball and keep things ticking over. I like to disrupt the opposition, so I’d like to think I’m okay in both boxes as well.”

Head Coach Chris Beech added: “I’m really pleased Corey is joining us from another EFL club. Like Joe, he is at a great age to utilise his knowledge and experience, yet still young enough to have a burning ambition and hunger for success.

“He is a defensively minded player who can play multiple positions, helping the team maintain defensive structure and control. He takes responsibility, is physical and strong, and doesn’t suffer fools.

“Corey’s character and mindset, putting his team before himself, are a credit to him and are perfect traits for the growth of our 2024/25 squad. His addition brings us to 14 signed players for next season, and I am very pleased with the overall personality, quality, age range, and mix of experiences we have recruited so far this summer.

“Our goal, with the chairman’s support, is to build a squad that provides healthy competition and the capability to deal with injuries, suspensions, and illness for the challenges that lie ahead in the National League.

“All the best, Corey.”

Everyone at AFC Fylde would like to welcome Corey to the club.

Corey is signed-up for the 2024/25 season, and now you can by purchasing an AFC Fylde season ticket by CLICKING HERE