Stevenage are closing in on the signing of Gateshead striker Jovan Malcolm after the National League side accepted a bid from the League One outfit.
The 22-year-old is expected to complete his move in the coming days, with both clubs understood to be happy with the deal.
Gateshead boss Alun Armstrong confirmed a fee had been agreed on Friday, adding that the player was keen to take the opportunity. Malcolm, who scored 13 goals in 45 appearances last season, only joined the Heed in September 2024 after leaving West Bromwich Albion.
From West Brom to League One
A graduate of the West Brom academy, Malcolm had loan spells at Accrington Stanley, Solihull Moors and Cheltenham Town before making his senior debut for the Baggies in January 2023, scoring in an FA Cup win over Chesterfield. He made his Football League debut later that season against Sheffield United but was released in the summer of 2024.
His arrival at Gateshead brought regular minutes and a strong return in front of goal, making him one of the National League’s standout forwards. That form has now convinced Stevenage to make their move as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new campaign.
Manager’s Admission
Speaking to local media, Armstrong admitted the bid came at a disruptive time in pre-season, but stressed the importance of not standing in the way of the player’s ambitions.
“It wasn’t ideal preparation but a bid came in for Jovan and the kid wanted to go,” he said. “I want players to be here, but I can’t stop him going to a League One club. It wouldn’t be fair, and we got a decent fee for him.”
The move will be a return to the EFL for Malcolm, who will be aiming to establish himself at Stevenage after previous spells in the third tier brought limited opportunities.
Writer’s View
For Stevenage, Malcolm represents a signing with upside: young, proven at National League level, and with prior EFL experience. His pace and movement offer something different to their current options, and if he adapts quickly, he could provide vital competition in the forward line. For Gateshead, while losing their top scorer is a blow, the fee and the player’s wish to step up make it a deal that suits all parties.
