Auckland FC signs New Zealand International, Lachlan Bayliss, from the Newcastle Jets
Auckland FC is delighted to announce the signing of attacking midfielder Lachie Bayliss.
Bayliss, 23, arrives from Newcastle Jets, having made 71 appearances across all competitions, scoring 6 goals, and was an integral part of the side that claimed both the A-League Premiership and Australia Cup double in the 25/26 season.
“To be joining Auckland off the back of a World Cup is a dream,” says Bayliss.
“There’s no better time to be a New Zealand footballer, and I want to bring that energy to Auckland FC. I’ve seen what this club means to the fans.”
The club has ambition, and the fans are incredible. I’ve experienced that atmosphere as an opponent, and it’s something else.”
Born in Australia and growing up in Darwin, Bayliss qualifies for New Zealand through his late father. The four-cap All White made his debut against Finland in March 2026, earlier representing his country at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and now on the world stage as part of All White’s Head Coach Darren Bazeley’s 26-man squad for the FIFA World Cup™ in North America.
Bayliss joined the Central Coast Mariners Academy in 22/23 before joining Newcastle Jets. Over three seasons with the Jets, he made 62 appearances, contributing 6 goals and 5 assists, and featured in seven Australia Cup matches, including four appearances in their triumphant 2025 campaign.
His eye for the spectacular was on full display last season with his stunning 21-second strike against the Wellington Phoenix, earning him a nomination for the A-League Goal of the Season.
He wrapped up his time with the Jets playing a key role in the side lifting the Premier’s Plate, earning him a place among the PFA Team of the Season.
Capable of playing as a No.6, No.8, No.10 and even out wide, he is a dynamic, versatile player with a proven eye for goal.
Terry McFlynn, Auckland FC Director of Football, says the signing is one he has been targeting.
“Lachlan is a player we’ve had our eye on for some time,” says McFlynn.
“He’s energetic, versatile and has the technical quality to hurt teams going forward. Winning the Premiership and the Cup with Newcastle shows he knows what it takes to win; we’re delighted to have him in Auckland.”
Bayliss will link up with his new teammates on his return from the FIFA World Cup™.
Membership for Auckland FC is now on sale, guaranteeing you a seat to all home games to watch Lachlan and our World Cup stars in action.
| Name: | Lachlan Bayliss |
| Age: | 23 |
| DOB: | 24 July 2002 |
| Previous Clubs: | Newcastle Jets, Newcastle Jets Academy, Central Coast Academy |
| Trophy’s: | 2025 Australia Cup, 25/26 A-League Men Premier’s |
| Apps / Goals: | 71 appearances, 11 goal involvements |
| International Career: | 4 appearances for the All Whites |
