Colchester United Set To Land Premier League Forward

Colchester United have reportedly agreed on a deal to sign forward John-Kymani Gordon on a free transfer, following his departure from Premier League side Crystal Palace.

The 21-year-old has experienced loan stints within the EFL, turning out for the likes of Carlisle United, AFC Wimbledon and Cambridge United and was let go this summer after his contract came to an end.

Gordon finished the 2023/24 campaign with the Dons as they narrowly missed out on a place in the League Two play-off places.

How did Gordon fare last season?

The forward began the campaign on loan with League One side Cambridge United, where he made 19 appearances in all competitions and contributed to two goals for the club.

After being recalled in January, Gordon signed for AFC Wimbledon in the fourth tier, making an additional 18 appearances and contributing to two further goals.

He ended the campaign featuring for Crystal Palace’s U21s in their play-off campaign.

In total, Gordon made 38 appearances in all competitions, contributing to four goals.

Is a deal likely to be agreed?

Following the conclusion of the 2023/24 campaign, Crystal Palace have opted against extending Gordon’s contract and has been released by the Premier League side.

According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, Colchester United have won the race to sign the 21-year-old on a free transfer, with a fee not being required because he wasn’t offered a new contract at the Premier League side.

How could this signing impact Gordon’s development?

The forward would be linking up with manager Danny Cowley at the League Two side, in which the club have already signed several new players including winger Harry Anderson.

With John Akinde’s exit confirmed Colchester are likely to be in the market for several attackers as they aim to avoid a repeat of last season where they were heavily involved in a relegation battle in League Two.