Eastleigh forward Nathan Tshikuna is currently on trial, ahead of a possible summer move to League Two outfit Cheltenham Town, days after his contract with the club came to an end.
The 26-year-old is yet to put pen-to-paper on a new contract with the Spitfires, after his short-term contract came to an end, and just over three months down the line – he could be playing EFL football next season.
Cheltenham (like most other EFL clubs), are back in pre-season training ahead of the 2025/26 campaign and with friendlies looming – the vast majority of sides will have players on trial with views to permanent deals.
Robins trial for former Eastleigh man
As confirmed via journalist Jon Palmer, out-of-contract Eastleigh forward Nathan Tshikuna is one of the players on trial with Cheltenham Town at this moment in time.
The forward is currently a free agent but was never released by the National League side, suggesting the door for him to go back isn’t closed.
Tshikuna featured on Friday evening for Cheltenham Town as a trialist, during their pre-season victory against Bishop’s Cleeve and could potentially be involved in their match against Worcester City on Saturday.
How did he fare last season?
Following Tamworth’s promotion to the National League, Tshikuna became one of their key attacking outlets during the first half of the season, forming a good relationship with Dan Creaney.
Across all competitions, the 26-year-old registered 12 goal contributions in 33 appearances for the semi-professional side, with ten of those coming in the league alone.
Due to this, full-time clubs came calling and Tshikuna moved on to Eastleigh on a free transfer.
He registered just seven appearance since his arrival in March, but was sent off on his debut.
Is Tshikuna ready for the EFL?
His two-month stint at Eastleigh, was Tshikina’s first taste of professional football – having spent time most recently in the Non-League scene with Tamworth.
He had limited minutes with the Spitfires and failed to contribute to a goal or assist, suggesting that he potentially needs more time before he makes the step up.
However, his stint in the National League with Tamworth certainly suggested that he is an exciting forward who can add goal contributions in the final third.
