Gillingham have completed the signing of former Northampton Town striker Vadaine Oliver. 

The forward joins the club after rejecting a new contract offer at Northampton, and becomes the Gills’ second signing of the transfer window following the arrival of Ryan Jackson last week.

The deal

The length of the contract hasn’t been disclosed, but Olivier joins Steve Evans’ side after rejecting a new deal at Sixfields.

His offer from Northampton came at the start of July following their promotion to League One, but, after over a month of waiting, it has officially been declined.

He will now join up with the Gills, who finished 10th last season in League One, ahead of the new campaign.

Oliver’s record

The 28-year-old played in the youth setup at Sheffield Wednesday before turning out for the likes of Lincoln City, Crewe Alexandra, York City and Morecambe.

He signed a one-year deal with Northampton at the start of the 2019/20 season and went on to score eight goals in 40 appearances for the Cobblers, including the opening goal of their 3-0 play-off second leg win over Cheltenham Town.

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The forward played 74 minutes of the play-off final against Exeter City, helping his side to a 4-0 win, and thus promotion to League One.

In total, Olivier has 59 goals from 311 professional appearances.

Reaction

Oliver told his new club’s website: “I am buzzing to get it over the line. I had a few offers from League One clubs but as soon as I came down and spoke to the manager and heard his plans for the club, it was a no brainer for me.

“As a footballer you want to be successful and be in a team that is looking for that big push. To take me to that next level I thought it was the right decision.”

Gills manager Steve Evans told the club website: “He was outstanding in the play-offs for Northampton, scoring a goal. He is a real enthusiastic front player who can play not just centrally - he is a really good asset.

“He is a real handful and our supporters will take to him.”

Oliver also tweeted his thanks to Northampton. He said: “I’ve honestly loved my time with Northampton, from the moment I entered the building! 

“Achieving what we set out to do, gaining promotion in the fashion we did, was incredible. I’d like thank the manager, all the staff, the boys and all the fans - you’ve been unreal, I wish you all the best.”