Blackpool swoop for Crawley Town forward who was previously linked with Sheffield Wednesday, Millwall and Sunderland

Blackpool have moved swiftly to bolster their forward line with the signing of Crawley Town hotshot Bez Lubala.
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The 22-year-old arrives at Bloomfield Road for an undisclosed fee following yesterday’s surprise departure of Joe Nuttall to Northampton Town.

Lubala, who scored 13 goals in 41 appearances for Crawley last season, has signed a three-year deal with the option to extend by a further 12 months.

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“It feels great to have signed and I can’t wait to get started," he said of his move.

“The passionate support that this club has was one of the key reasons I joined. There seems to be a real buzz around here at the moment and that was a big factor in my decision.

“The club really wants to push forward and has a real vision for where they want to go. I’m looking forward to playing my part and seeing how far we can all go.”

The DR Congo-born forward enjoyed a strong campaign in League Two last season having signed on a free transfer in June 2019 from Birmingham City.

Lubala in action for Crawley Town last seasonLubala in action for Crawley Town last season
Lubala in action for Crawley Town last season
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Lubala, who made his debut for Birmingham in a 3-1 defeat at Bristol City in April 2018, turned down the offer of a new contract at St Andrew’s at the end of the 2018/19 season to move to Crawley.

The Blues inserted a sell-on clause as part of the deal that took Lubala to West Sussex and will be due a percentage of the agreed fee.

Primarily a left winger, Lubala has attracted interest from Championship sides Sheffield Wednesday and Millwall in recent months. League One outfit Sunderland have also been linked.

Known for his versatility, he’s equally adept at playing on the right or down the middle as a centre forward.

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Lubala, who will compete with the likes of Sullay Kaikai and CJ Hamilton for a starting role, becomes Blackpool’s ninth signing of the summer.

Head coach Neil Critchley said: “Bez is someone who we have been aware of for some time who we feel will be a fantastic asset to the football club.

“He’s an example of the type of player we’re looking to bring to the club – hungry, ambitious and has a great attitude towards the game.

“Bez impressed last season with his goals and assists at Crawley, and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can do in tangerine over the next few years.”