EASTLEIGH have signed Welsh midfielder Kieron Evans on a free transfer following his departure from Championship side Cardiff City.

The Spitfires fought off interest from EFL clubs to sign the 23 year old who made 34 appearances while on loan at Newport County last season.

A technical, dynamic midfielder, Evans emerged through Cardiff City’s Academy, first joining at under-8 level before making his senior debut on September 12, 2021 in a Championship fixture against Nottingham Forest.

He has since gained valuable experience during loan spells in the UK football pyramid, and has played in the National League for Torquay and Gateshead previously.

He is a former FA Trophy winner from his time with Gateshead, and has represented Wales at youth level, most recently playing for the Under-20s under Rob Edwards.

Kieron Evans has joined Eastleigh following the end of his Cardiff City contract.Kieron Evans has joined Eastleigh following the end of his Cardiff City contract. (Image: Eastleigh FC) Evans has made 108 appearances in his senior career, 12 of those coming for boyhood club Cardiff, and six while on loan at Northern Irish side Linfield.

Evans joins us on Tuesday, July 1, once his contract with Cardiff City expires and will be ready to face Saints in pre-season.

Speaking after joining the Spitfires, Evans said: "It feels amazing. I came here this morning and met everyone. Everything feels and sounds amazing.

"I can't wait to get started. I had a few conversations with Kelvin over the phone. It was the two-year plan, and seeing the vision of where they want to be (that sold me).

"Where we all want to be is in the EFL. If we can push into the play-offs this year, then I think that will be a good start to the year.

"The conversations have gone well. The way they want to play, and how we are going to win games this season, is what drew me in most recently.

"And the characteristics they both have, especially Kelv, he understands the player management stuff and being a footballer. The big thing is having a good connection with Kelvin from the start. 

"I've got a lot of experience now. I'm 23, and I've had three good loans at totally different clubs. Maturing as a man is the most valuable experience I've had.

"The games have been adding up as well. Winning the FA Trophy is the best moment I've had in my career so far. Winning on penalties was a really good feeling."

When asked what supporters can expect of him, Evans said: "I will give 110 per cent to start every week. I like to work hard and get stuck in.

"I like to work really hard off the ball, but I think you will see my qualities on the ball. I'm really comfortable off both feet. I'm attack-minded and I like to go at players, score goals and get assists."