Find out more about MK Dons’ fourth signing of the summer, former Cardiff City midfielder Ryan Wintle

Following a controversial exit from Cardiff City, Ryan Wintle is ready to mount a challenge for a second League One promotion in a row.

The 29-year-old midfielder had a brilliant season last time out for the Bluebirds, playing a pivotal role as they secured their return to the Championship, finishing second to Lincoln City.

His role in the centre of the park saw him named Cardiff’s Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year, but after five years at the club, he departed at the end of his contract. Speaking about his exit, he said it was “a decision that was completely out of my control” with his future now secured in Milton Keynes.

Beginning his career at Crewe Alexandra, Wintle grew up in Newcastle-under-Lyme and came through the academy at Stoke before joining the Railwaymen. Making his debut in late 2015, Wintle would go on to establish himself in the centre of the Alexandra Stadium, known for his industrious and defensive mentality.

Racking up more than 180 appearances in his six-and-a-half years at the club, helping them secure promotion from League Two, he agreed a move to Wales in 2021 but swiftly moved to fellow Championship side Blackpool on loan.

At Bloomfield Road, he got his first taste of football in the second tier as he made 18 appearances in the first-half of the season before being recalled by the Bluebirds, going on to be a regular for his parent club for two-and-a-half years.

But after that spell, he would be sent to Millwall on loan for the 2024/25 season, watching from afar as Cardiff were relegated to League One.

Returning to Wales last season, Wintle’s performances in the centre of midfield secured their immediate return to the Championship, finishing 14 points clear of third place and doing the awards double.

Departing at the end of his contract, Wintle was highly sought-after by clubs at several levels, with the midfielder opting to add to Dons’ ranks.