David Jeffrey aims to strenthen the panel at Linfield

Nineteen-year-old Kingsberry opted to join the Belfast Blues after being released by Mick McCarthy.

"We managed to persuade him that joining Linfield would be a good option," said Jeffrey.

"Chris is an exciting talent and can play wide on the right or on the left, areas which required strengthening."

Jeffrey said he was determined to keep his best players at Windsor Park and would be talking terms with those whose contracts were due to expire.

New Ballymena United boss Tommy Wright recently announced he was interested in Blues trio David Larmour, Andrew Hunter and Pat McShane.

One man definitely staying is top scorer Peter Thompson who has just signed a three-year deal.

"Peter has completed a phenomenal season - his contribution has been immense," said Jeffrey.