Freddie Ladapo has joined League One side Southend United for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old striker joined the Eagles following a prolific stint with non-league side Margate in 2016 and enjoyed two goalscoring loan spells in the Football League with Oldham Athletic and Shrewsbury Town.

Having made his Football League debut during his time at Colchester United at the start of his career, Ladapo made his Palace bow away to Manchester United earlier this season, and featured prominently in pre-season fixtures and for the under-23s, scoring six goals in 11 appearances for Richard Shaw’s side this term.

Ladapo has become the first signing made by former Charlton Athletic manager Chris Powell, who arrived at the Shrimpers earlier this month with the club currently in 17th position in the League One table.