Newtown have signed Theo Wharton from Barry Town United for an undisclosed fee after initially agreeing to stay at Jenner Park last month.

The 27-year-old midfielder penned a new two-year deal last month to stay with the Linnets following their relegation to JD Cymru South.

However, the lure of top-flight football and the chance to test himself in Europe has tempted Cwmbran-born Wharton to sign for Chris Hughes’ men.

Wharton joins the Robins as they prepare for their Europa Conference League qualifying clash with HB Torshavn of the Faroe Islands.

He was part of the travelling contingent that made the trip across the Irish Sea for Newtown’s weekend friendly with Northern Irish champions Linfield at Windsor Park.

In a statement, Barry said: “We can confirm that Theo Wharton has joined Newtown Football Club for an undisclosed fee.

“Theo had signed a two-year contract with the club but had made it clear his desire to depart us following Newtown’s approach and offer.

“All at the club would like to thank Theo for his time with us and wish him the very best of luck.”

Wharton joined Barry from Hereford in January 2020 and spent two-and-a-half seasons at Jenner Park, making 72 appearances in the Cymru Premier, scoring two goals.

Wharton was Newtown’s third signing of the summer after Mathew Jones arrived from Aberystwyth Town and Louis Robles left The New Saints for Latham Park.

Meanwhile, Barry, who kicked off their pre-season friendlies at Penrhiwceiber Rangers on Tuesday, will now be playing all their home warm-up games in Leckwith due to work on the Jenner Park pitch.

The first is against Treowen Stars on Saturday (kick-off 2.30pm).