Motherwell have strengthened their striking options with the signing of forward Seb Palmer-Houlden, with boss Alfred Johansson describing him as the 'perfect addition' for the Steelmen.
The 24-year-old former Dundee man has signed a two-year deal at Fir Park for an undisclosed fee, with the club holding an option for a further year. He joins from English League Two side Gillingham, making the switch from ME7 to ML1.
Familiar face in Scottish football
Palmer-Houlden will be a familiar face after his season at Motherwell's Premiership rivals Dundee in 2024/25, where he scored five goals in his first seven games. He arrives ahead of Thursday night's Europa Conference League play-off round first leg clash against German side Freiburg, with Johansson hoping to see him involved as the club look to bounce back from Sunday's shock Premier Sports Cup exit to Stenhousemuir.
Speaking to club media, Johansson said: “We’ve been looking to strengthen in the forward areas, and Seb is a perfect addition. With experience here in Scotland, Seb has been playing and scoring at his previous clubs and offers pace, strength and versatility in the forward line. We hope to be able to include him in our Conference League squad for the matches against SC Freiburg.”
Experience across English lower leagues
Palmer-Houlden has experience at a host of English lower league clubs under his belt, having had spells at Bristol City, Chippenham Town, Yeovil and Newport County. Last season with Gillingham he scored five goals in 37 outings for The Gills.
He said: “I’m so happy to be back in Scotland and, most importantly, at Motherwell. It’s no secret about how well this club is doing right now, and the people I’ve spoken to within the club have been so friendly and helpful. It’s already feeling like such a family club. Speaking to the manager, he’s made it clear what he wants me to do, and that clarity is so important. I think every footballer would want to play in a team like this, so I feel really privileged to be given this opportunity. We have a massive game on Thursday night here, and I can’t wait to see this stadium packed out.”
Gillingham statement
A club statement from Gillingham said: "The club can confirm that Seb Palmer-Houlden has signed for Scottish Premier League side Motherwell for an undisclosed fee. The 22-year-old striker joined the Gills on a three-year deal in the summer of 2025 from Bristol City and went on to score five times in 37 appearances in all competitions while at ME7. Seb returns to Scotland having played on loan for Dundee during the 2024-25 campaign. Motherwell are in UEFA Conference League action on Thursday night when they take on Freiburg at Fir Park. The former Newport and Yeovil forward could make his league debut on August 30 when Motherwell travel to St. Mirren."
