Grimsby Town Football Club are delighted to announce the signing of defender Edon Pruti from Sutton United for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old centre-back has joined the Mariners on a two-year contract, with the Club holding an option to extend the deal by a further 12 months.

Pruti arrives at Blundell Park following an impressive campaign with Sutton United, where he was appointed club captain and made 41 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals from defence.

Born in England and capped by Albania at Under-21 level, Pruti began his development in the academies of Stevenage and Burnley before gaining senior experience across the National League system. He earned a move to Brentford’s B Team before making the step into the EFL with Hartlepool United.

After returning to non-League football, Pruti impressed during spells with Farnborough, Slough Town and Sutton United, establishing himself as a commanding and consistent central defender.

Head Coach David Artell said:

“Edon is a left footed centre-half with excellent potential. He’ll provide unbelievably good competition for Cameron McJannet, who’s played a hell of a lot of games in the last two years, but he’ll be fighting for that spot.

He’s a good size, 6ft 3, and he’s got decent experience behind him as well. He’s one that we feel has got quite a high ceiling to develop and grow.”

Speaking after completing his move, Pruti said:

“I’m delighted to be here. As soon as I heard there was interest from Grimsby Town, I knew it was somewhere I wanted to be.

“Watching from afar last season, you could see what the manager has built here and the direction the Club is going in. It’s something I desperately wanted to be a part of. The Club came close to promotion last season and hopefully this can be the year we take that next step.

“I feel like I’ve developed a lot over the last few years. Playing regularly, gaining experience and taking on the responsibility of being captain at Sutton helped me mature both on and off the pitch. I learned a lot about leadership and how to get the best out of yourself and the people around you.

“After spending time away from the Football League, I feel ready for this opportunity. I’ve played a lot of games, developed my game and I believe now is the right time to show what I can do at this level.

“The manager was brilliant when we spoke. He told me what he wants from me, where he thinks I can improve and how he can help me develop further. That was a big factor in my decision.

“I can’t wait to get started, meet the supporters and play at Blundell Park. I’ve heard so much about the atmosphere and the backing the fans give the team, and I’m really looking forward to experiencing it for myself.”

Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club would like to welcome Edon to the Club and wish him every success in black and white.

UTM