Auckland FC have confirmed the signing of English striker Sam Cosgrove, marking a clear statement of intent for the upcoming A-League season.

The 28-year-old joins from Barnsley FC, where he made 60 appearances, scoring seven goals and setting up six.

His arrival adds to head coach Steve Corica’s attacking options as the Black Knights build on last season’s record-breaking run, which saw them score 50 goals faster than any other A-League team and claim New Zealand’s first A-League Men’s silverware.

Cosgrove brings proven experience with 70 career goals across 297 professional games.

His highlights include a title-winning season with Plymouth Argyle in 2023 and a prolific spell in Scotland with Aberdeen FC, where he scored 47 goals, including eight in Europa League qualifiers.

Coach Corica said the striker was a “great acquisition” who would add physical presence and depth.

Cosgrove joins a forward line that now includes recent signing Lachlan Brook, alongside Logan Rogerson, Guillermo May, Marlee François, Jonty Bidois, Liam Gillion and in-form Jesse Randall.

Cosgrove, who arrived in Auckland over the weekend, has already trained with his new teammates.

He said the club’s culture and support made his decision easy, adding he was impressed by the way the city has embraced the team.

Auckland FC face Sydney FC in Saturday’s Australia Cup semi-final before a friendly against Western Sydney Wanderers next week.

For Hibiscus Coast football fans, it’s another chance to see a growing club making waves on both sides of the Tasman.

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