The 22-year-old midfielder will join the ‘Gers following the expiration of his contract with Ards.
As a youngster, Steele made his move across the water from Crusaders to Watford and then Crystal Palace, representing the Eagles’ U18 and U21 sides before returning home to join Crusaders at the start of the 2022/23 season.
Aidan then joined Ards on loan in January 2023 before joining permanently in June 2023 where he went on to make 107 appearances for the North Down side scoring 17 goals.
He was the Club's Player of the Year in 2023/24 and in 2024/25 he was the Club’s top goalscorer which, along with some impressive performances, earned him the Players’ Player of Year accolade.
On joining Carrick Rangers, Aidan Steele commented,
“I'm really, really excited to join the Club. I was hoping for the chance to step up to the Premiership so when the opportunity to join Carrick came, it felt like a no brainer really. I just can't wait to get going with the new season.
I want to come here and have a massive impact. I want to come here and contribute goals, assists and especially contribute to winning games. I set myself those sorts of goals at the beginning of every season, as I know if I'm performing to my maximum, it'll help the team win games. Ultimately, as a team that has to be the goal to win as many games as possible and get as many points on the board at the end of the season.”
Manager Stephen Baxter added,
“I am delighted to announce the arrival of Aidan Steele from Ards.
Aidan has been a fantastic youth player at Watford and Crystal Palace before returning home to sign for Crusaders. After a short loan spell at Ards he extended his stay for a further two years and at 22 is now ready to step up a level.
Aidan has caught the eye with his dynamic runs and goals from midfield and we are all looking forward to seeing him in Carrick Rangers colours next season.”
Welcome to Carrick Rangers, Aidan!