Blackpool sign Orient striker Gnanduillet

French striker Armand Gnanduillet could make his Seasiders debut against Wycombe Wanderers after signing from Leyton Orient on a two-year deal.
New signing Armand Gnanduillet  Picture: Blackpool FCNew signing Armand Gnanduillet  Picture: Blackpool FC
New signing Armand Gnanduillet Picture: Blackpool FC

The 24-year-old, who represented Ivory Coast at Under-20 level, moved to England in January 2013 with Chesterfield and went on to win a two-year contract.

Blackpool boss Gary Bowyer has been cursed in the striker department since his arrival at the club, with Jamille Matt, Danny Philliskirk, Jack Redshaw and Kyle Vassell all suffering injuries. Until Gnanduillet’s arrival, Mark Cullen was the only out-and-out frontman definitely available for tomorrow’s home clash with Wycombe.

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Bowyer told the club website: “Armand brings height and power to the team and offers another option that will allow us to mix things up from an attacking point of view. He has good experience at this level and is determined to do his best for Blackpool.”

The Frenchman said: “I feel very good and happy because Blackpool is a very big club. I think this is the right decision and a good club for me to play and get some games.”

Gnanduillet scored 10 goals in 82 League appearances for the Spireites, helping them win promotion from League Two two seasons ago.

After loan spells with Tranmere and Oxford, he was loaned to Stevenage last season and scored six goals in 16 games.

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Two of those were in a match against Leyton Orient, who subsequently signed him in January.

Gnanduillet netted four times in 17 games for the London club last season. His only appearance so far this season was as a late substitute in the opening-day draw at Cheltenham.

Blackpool and Leyton Orient have both stated the clubs ‘agreed terms’ over Gnanduillet, suggesting there is perhaps no transfer fee involved.