Both players have agreed to leave the Hatters after the transfer window has closed, with both leaving on free transfers.
Rea, who turns 29 today (03/09), will leave Kenilworth Road following a seven-year stint in which he played a role in the Hatters’ rise from League 2 to League 1 and helped them stabilize in the Championship.
The player, who can play in both defense and midfield, exits after more than 200 appearances for the club he joined from Brighton in 2016, captaining the squad on several occasions.
Injuries limited his appearances in the 2019/20 and 2021/22 seasons, with Rea spending time on loan with Wigan and Cheltenham in the latter two.
Rea’s work included writing a farewell letter to Luton Town fans, which the club published on their website.
“I’m so proud of what everyone has accomplished in my time at the club,” he said. It’s been a wild ride, and we’ve all shared some incredible highs with so many players and staff members who have been there from the beginning. What Luton Town Football Club has accomplished with that core will never be replicated, and it has been an honor to be a part of that history.
“I will continue to be, but as a supporter, because I will never lose my love for the club.” I’ve made so many friends, not only on the football field, but also among the personnel who work diligently behind the scenes to make the club what it is, as well as among the supporters. As much as I’d like to have been playing all the time, I’ve had some amazing nights in the audience and appreciate their unwavering support.
“Regardless of where my next move takes me, you’ll still see me at matches.” But for the time being, I’d like to thank everyone I’ve worked with – all the players, managers, coaches, the excellent medical team and sports scientists, all the employees and directors – and wish them all the best.
In addition to Rea, Luton have confirmed the departure of goalkeeper Macey.
The goalkeeper had previously spent time on loan at Luton Town in 2017, and he returned to the Bedfordshire club last summer following a move from Hibernian in Scotland.
Macey, on the other hand, made just one appearance for Luton last season and spent the second part of the season on loan with Portsmouth.
With Thomas Kaminski and Tim Krul joining the club and James Shea remaining, the Hatters have decided to let Macey leave on a free transfer.
