Perri Iandolo is keen to follow in the footsteps of his older brother after signing a first-team contract at Maidstone United.

Iandolo’s brother Ellis, 23, progressed through the Stones academy before moving onto Swindon Town in 2015 where he helped them to win promotion to League 1.

Younger sibling Perri, 18, will now be part of the first team squad at the Gallagher Stadium next season and the player is thrilled to be representing his hometown club.

“It feels really good,” he said, when speaking to Stones TV. “I have grown up in Maidstone, it's my hometown club, and I am grateful to get the opportunity.

“Ellis did the academy and was involved in the first team when [former manager] Jay Saunders was here and made a few appearances before he got his move to Swindon. Hopefully I can follow in the footsteps of him.”

Iandolo is one of two youngsters who have signed up for the first team, with Max Sutton also penning a deal this week.

Iandolo stepped up to play for Maidstone’s academy side after playing in the under-16s prior to that. He’s trained with the first team already and manager Hakan Hayrettin is delighted to have him onboard.

The Stones boss said: “His enthusiasm to be part of the squad and his desire to play for his hometown club are unquestionable. He’s one of those who made sure he wasn’t forgotten during the lockdown!

“There’s no doubt he’s got the ability, he’s shown that throughout his time at our academy and with the under-23s. He’s now got to take all those things that made him stand out at youth level into the men’s game.

“From what I’ve seen of his attitude and character, I wanted to get him on contract and hopefully keep his progression going.”

Chief executive Bill Williams added: “He has seen his brother make it in the Football League and there’s nothing like a bit of friendly sibling rivalry to push you on. I wish him every success next season.”