Laurent has joined the Blues on a free transfer (Getty)

Southend United have signed French striker Francis Laurent.

The 22-year-old, who joins on a free deal, played for FSV Mainz in Germany last year and scored for the Blues in a friendly against Fulham on Tuesday.

"He's different, he's in that Kanu-type role," Blues manager Steve Tilson told BBC Essex.

"He's got good feet for a big man, but I've only seen him for the one game, so it might be a case of taking a little gamble on him."

Laurent had a trial at League Two side Barnet earlier this month.