SIMEON ON HIS WAY TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP
Wednesday 14 July
Norwich City of the Championship have finally got their man and signed Simeon Jackson, Gills consistent top striker of the past two seasons, for a reported £600,000 fee today.
Jackson is reported to have flown to Germany to join the Canaries at their pre-season training camp.
Last month the Canaries made a bid for the Canadian International that was refused by the Club but an increase total plus a loan player was enough to persuade Gills Chairman Paul Scally to accept.
Norwich have been chasing Simeon all summer and finally negotiated a deal with Gills by offering Paul Scally and Andy Hessenthaler a loan player, along with an increased fee.
Former Darts striker Cody McDonald will arrive on a season loan to help sweeten the deal and provide Gills with much needed fire power for the League Two campaign ahead.
Canaries boss Paul Lambert is a long-term admirer of Simeon Jackson and wants the striker to boost his scoring power in their new Championship season following promotion last year.
Following recent internationals in South America, the Canadian Head Coach, Stephen Hart said that Simeon Jackson should be playing at a higher level. Click here for full story.
This comment prompted speculation that Simeon could be on his way if the price was right for Gills Chairman Paul Scally and the added attraction of a striker on loan to help fill the undoubted void that will be left by Simeon was enough to persuade Gills management.
Cody McDonald (pictured left) signed for Dartford in October 2008 and in 20 appearances Cody scored 19 goals.
This scintillating form attracted interest from Norwich, Palace, Charlton and Reading.
He eventually joined Norwich in February 2009 and scored on his debut against Cardiff and is one of a number of strikers on the Norwich books.
Conference side Rushden & Diamonds will be entitled to a percentage of any fee received by the Gills.
Simeon’s full Gills record was a total of 42 goals with 17 coming in the last campaign. For Simeon’s full Gills record please click here.