Gillingham complete Zakuani signing

(Picture: Action Images via Reuters)

Gillingham have secured their third signing of the summer with experienced defender Gabriel Zakuani joining the club on a one-year deal.

The 31-year-old centre-back follows fellow defenders Alex Lacey and Luke O’Neill in joining the League One club since the end of the campaign, after he failed to agree a new contract at Northampton.

Zakuani made 25 appearance in the third-tier for the Cobblers last season, and was offered a contract by them “subject to an agreement being reached on his international commitments” but left the club in May.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Gills boss Ady Pennock said: “I’m really pleased to get Gabriel on board. Naturally he was attracting interest from other clubs but I’m delighted he has committed his future to us for the forthcoming season.

“Along with Alex and Luke he will provide stern competition for places in defence, and we very much look forward to working with him.”

The DR Congo international brings with him a wealth of experience to a side that struggled last season, and only just avoided relegation to League Two.

With spells in the EFL with Leyton Orient and Peterborough, and time in the Premier League with Fulham, Zakuani is an encouraging signing for Gillingham fans and the new arrival said: “I’m delighted to have joined Gillingham.

“As soon as I met the Manager and Peter Taylor, I felt it was the right place to continue my career and I can’t wait to get going.

“The management have made some great signings already and I’ll do my best to help push the club up the League One table.”