Manager Steve Evans has landed a new striker and he’s someone Gillingham fans will already know well.

Dominic Samuel scored seven goals in 24 league starts during a previous loan spell and Evans has been hunting the striker since he was released from Blackburn Rovers in the summer.

The deal looked like it was off earlier today (Monday), with Evans saying terms couldn’t be agreed, but negotiations have now been concluded. The Gills haven’t given any details about the length of the deal.

The club say the player was in “high demand” and Evans was delighted that the deal has been completed.

He said: “I first spoke to Dominic’s representatives on the completion of the Championship season to establish if the player was staying with Blackburn because he had played a significant part for them at the back end of the season.

“On learning from Tony Mowbray (Rovers manager) that was not the case, we had long discussions about the opportunity of Dominic coming back to Gillingham.

“There has been significant interest in the player and it has become clear in the last three weeks that the interest has come from the Championship's newly promoted clubs, and top end of League 1.

“We look forward to him helping us achieve our aspirations for the season ahead and bringing some experience to a very youthful dressing room.”

He will start training with the Gills on Tuesday and could be involved the following night when Evans’ side travel to Stoke City for a Carabao Cup third round match.

Speaking to the club, Samuel added: “I did well during my loan spell here and I felt it was the right choice for me.

“The Gaffer made me feel welcome and after meeting him several times I really wanted to play for him.

“I made it clear I wanted to wear the number nine shirt if it was available, and have the responsibility that comes with that jersey.”

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