Michael Skubala’s Imps have reportedly entered the race to sign former Stockport County full-back Macauley Southam-Hales.
The 29-year-old is available on a free transfer following his departure from Edgeley Park, and we are reported to be among the clubs to have made a formal offer.
Imps Face Competition For Experienced Defender
Football League World suggest that City, as well as Wigan Athletic, and Bristol Rovers, tabled proposals to Southam-Hales, with Michael keen to add to the wide defensive areas. Southam-Hales, who can operate as a right-back, wing-back or even right-midfielder, has been a key figure for Stockport since joining from Fleetwood Town in 2020.
Although his recent seasons have been hampered by injuries, making just 20 appearances in 2024/25, 24 the season prior and 13 the season before, he has been a part of Stockport’s impressive rise. He has at least contributed to three promotions and a League One play-off push in their first season back at that level. Off the pitch, he was recognised as the club’s Community Player of the Season, highlighting the positive influence he brings to a dressing room.
Southam-Hales Career
Southam-Hales made 123 appearances in all competitions for Stockport and was particularly impactful in the 2023/24 season, where he registered seven assists despite limited game time. A former Barry Town United and Hartlepool United player, Southam-Hales spent time on the treatment table last season following a back injury that disrupted his progress.
In a reflective interview upon leaving the club, he described his time at Stockport as “memories that will last a lifetime” and paid tribute to the supporters who backed him through injury and recovery.
Despite these setbacks, the Welshman remains a popular and admired figure, with Stockport CEO Simon Wilson saying:
“Macauley Southam-Hales is one of the best people I have met in my life. He is such a giving person and would do anything for anybody. His nature, spirit, and personality are infectious.”
With Lincoln seeking to improve on last season’s play-off miss, his arrival would add depth, maturity and a winning mentality to Skubala’s squad.
Writer’s View
I’m not so sure about this link, if I’m honest. If we were going for it, I know there would be questions asked about fitness, and rightly so. 47 league outings across three seasons would feel like a risk, but I guess he would be coming in as back up to Tendayi, who may not be a Saturday/Tuesday man throughout the campaign.
If there are legs in it, I’ll label it a calculated risk. However, I suggest we’re more eager to find a left back than we are cover for the right side of defence, but, in fairness, we will need someone in that area.