Colchester United are pleased to welcome former Leicester City midfielder Sammie McLeod to the club, after a successful stint with Maldon & Tiptree.
19-year-old Sammie excelled in the heart of the Jammers midfield and now steps back into the professional game after signing a two year contract with the U's.
He scored nine goals for Maldon before his season was ended by injury, and he said: "I'm really pleased to sign for a club like this and I can't wait to get going.
"The injury wasn't great for me and it's been a mental challenge as much as a physical one in working towards getting fit again, but the season was a good one for me until that point."
Sammie becomes the latest player to move into the U's U23s after impressing at Bostik North level and he's keen to make a big impression with the club this season.
He added: "It was a good experience in the two years at Leicester, and I am also glad that I experienced being at Maldon.
"It's a different type of football and I feel like I have learned a lot from being there, and it has made me into more of a versatile player.
"I'm getting stronger and more flexible as my rehab continues and I am confident I will come back stronger.
"The target is to get into the first team and progress from there."
Sammie's move will be completed subject to paperwork clearance from the relevant authorities.