Scunthorpe United sign central defender Jean Belehouan

Scunthorpe United is thrilled to announce the signing of highly-rated defender Jean Belehouan following his departure from fellow National League outfit Gateshead FC.

The French centre-half came through the ranks at Manchester United where he spent seven years at Carrington amongst the Red Devils best at youth level. A switch to Sheffield United would follow for the defender in 2017 where he would proceed to progress and continue his development as the Blades marched to the Premier League.

Now 24, Belehouan gained valuable experience in men’s football throughout several loan spells during his time in Sheffield. Firstly, following limited game time with Halifax Town he would show his true promise during stints with Farsley Celtic and Boston United. These impressive loan spells would earn him a professional contract with Tranmere Rovers ahead of the 2023-24 season.

After a single season with Tranmere in which he made eight appearances under former Scunthorpe boss Nigel Adkins, he would be highly tipped to join a higher end National League last season and eventually put pen to paper on a deal with Gateshead. Over the course of last season, the Ivorian born defender would proceed to make 26 league appearances for the Heed and would end the season with an appearance on the recent series of Baller League where he featured for M7 FC.

In his first interview with the club, Belehouan stated: "I'm delighted to get this deal done, Its been quite an easy process and I just can't wait to get going.

"I'm quick, a one-v-one defender, very vocal, a leader and very passionate for sure."

Welcome to the club, Jean!