Colchester United have clinched the signing of Gillingham striker John Akinde.

The 32-year-old has been with the Gills since joining in January 2020 but has netted just once this season. His contract at Priestfield was mutually terminated, allowing him to join United on a two-and-a-half-year deal.

There had been speculation last year Akinde would be leaving for Southend United and more recently there was interest from Bristol Rovers for the striker.

But Colchester have made their move for the front-man who leaves Priestfield with nine league goals to his name from 70 appearances.

He had joined the Gills from Lincoln City for an undisclosed fee, signed by former manager Steve Evans.

His last game for the club came on Tuesday in a goalless draw against Shrewsbury. Akinde’s only goal this season came in a 2-2 draw at Bolton.

Akinde's new team are third from bottom in League 2.

Colchester's interim head coach Wayne Brown said: "I think he'll be a great asset for us.

"He will give us a different dynamic that I think we have been missing so far this season, a presence and experience but more importantly, we're hoping that he's going to bring us goals."