Frenchman Set To Sign

Town boss Mike Newell is to offer French striker Akpa Akpro a deal to play at Blundell Park after Akpro played in the Mariners reserves 2-1 win against Bradford City on Wednesday.

Newell told the official site: ‘He’s played around 40 games in the French league and he wants to play in this country.

‘We could virtually play him immediately – which I would do – I would have no qualms about throwing him in.

‘He’s got good ability, a bit of pace, good in the air, and I think he could certainly be better than this division.’

Akpro, who is a free agent, has signed on an 18 month deal until the summer of 2010.

Akpro`s signing follows fellow Frenchman Mickael Buscher, who was set to sign for the Mariners last Wednesday.

Speaking to the official site, Newell said:  ‘It looks like we can do the deal right now – not have to wait until January as we first thought.

‘He’s got a little bit of potential. Obviously he hasn’t played much of late, and we are hoping that he can possibly get match fit before Christmas.

‘He’s left-sided, he’s an athlete, he’s got a good frame on him, he can play on the left side or up front, and I think he’s got a goal in him as well.’

Buscher has been a free agent since being made redundant by Scottish club Gretna.