In another step towards strengthening the squad ahead of the 2019/2020 League season, Gillingham have made the signing of Mikael Mandron.

The striker was a free agent this summer after being let go by Colchester United where he spent two seasons, scoring 12 goals in 85 appearances.

He was quickly snapped up by Steve Evans and the Gills to come to North Kent for a trial period where he has impressed fans, scoring in two pre season matches, including one in the defeat to Millwall on Sunday.

The other came on his debut at Folkestone Invicta in which the Gills were resounding 4-0 victors.

Originally starting his career in France, the 24 year old moved to England at 16 when he was signed by Sunderland’s academy.

He made three appearances for the Wearside club and also spent time at Fleetwood Town, Shrewsbury Town and Hartlepool United on loan before moving to Eastleigh when he was released by Sunderland.

He spent one season in Hampshire and scored ten goals in 28 appearances for the National League side, including a hat trick over Bromley – his first goals for the club.

Mandron was quickly snapped up by Wigan Athletic but he struggled to break into the side at the DW Stadium and hw swiftly moved on to Colchester.

Speaking about his new arrival to the club’s website, Gills manager Steve Evans said:

“It is no secret that I am a big fan of Mika’s and it is already well known that I have tried to sign the player previously. This is an exciting time to be working with him going forward.

“He gives us a presence, strength and mobility at the top end of the pitch and adds good competition to what are already good players in that department. He has spent the last couple of weeks with us and has played minutes in a number of different fixtures and has done nothing but impress.

“I am sure the fans will be delighted at the addition. Today we have added two talented players to a good squad of men in our dressing room who, in my opinion, are shaping up eloquently.”

Steve Evans would not rule out a further signing on Friday morning and talks are in an advanced stage with the Chairman, the players’ representatives and his current club.

[Image: Gillingham FC]