FORMER Colchester United trialist Richard Kone has signed for Wycombe Wanderers.

The 20-year-old striker, who was close to signing for the U's ahead of the 2021-22 campaign under Hayden Mullins, has linked up with former Colchester boss Matt Bloomfield at the League One club after leaving Essex Senior League club Athletic Newham.

He impressed at Colchester after linking up with them on trial in pre-season and featured in their friendlies against the likes of Spurs, Watford and Billericay Town.

READ MORE: Colchester linked with loan deal for West Ham United youngster

However, a deal did not materialise due to work permit problems and Kone ended up staying at Athletic Newham.

Kone has been training with the Chairboys since pre-season, while continuing to play for Athletic Newham where he has been in prolific goalscoring form.

 

In a statement, Athletic Newham said: "We are so proud of Richard Kone for his hard work and commitment, we couldn’t be more proud of Richard and the hard work he has put in to get to where he is now with the troubles that he has faced to become a pro football player and we would like wish him a successful football career

"Richard Kone will of course be missed by Athletic Newham not just the form he been this season but the form his been in the last couple of seasons for the club, he is a great player plus person and will be missed by many people at the club."

 

Kone was introduced to the Wycombe crowd prior to their game with Bristol Rovers at Adams Park, on Monday.

The deal is subject to EFL and FA approval and ratification of the relevant documents.