Eastleigh in £12k swoop for Bognor hotshot

By Simon Walter - 

Eastleigh will welcome in 2012 with a record signing – highly-rated Bognor Regis striker Jason Prior.

The former Moneyfields striker has been in outstanding form for the Ryman Division One South leaders over the last few seasons.

An outstanding record of 92 goals in 120 games has seen a host of Football League scouts make the trip to Nyewood Lane to watch.

Prior will play his last game for his current club against Whitehawk on New Year’s Day before completing his £12,000 move to the Silverlake Stadium.

He could make his Eastleigh debut at Dover on January 7.

A Bognor Regis FC statement said: “It is with regret that the club has to announce that agreement has been reached with Eastleigh for the transfer of Jason Prior.

“As supporters will be aware there has been considerable interest in Jason this season with many Football League clubs as well as a number of Conference clubs showing interest.

“However none of these have made a definite offer, and over the past week Eastleigh became the only club to make a formal and acceptable offer.

“Bognor would have very much preferred to keep Jason at Nyewood Lane until the end of the season, but would not be in a position to offer the player anything like the terms offered by Eastleigh.

“When it became clear that Jason wished to accept Eastleigh’s terms the clubs agreed a transfer fee. However it was agreed that the move will not take place until after the festive period to give Bognor some opportunity to find a suitable replacement.

“It is anticipated that Jason will be available for the match at Whitehawk on Monday.

“Jason’s record at the club speaks for itself and I am sure all supporters will join us in wishing him every success with his future career.”

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