NEWPORT County AFC have suffered a blow with the news that transfer target Alex Samuel has signed for League Two rivals Stevenage.

The 21-year-old was a big hit with the Exiles after joining on loan from Swansea City in January.

And new boss Michael Flynn was keen to keep the forward at Rodney Parade.

But Stevenage have tonight announced Samuel’s signing.

"Alex is a great start to our summer building. He has enthusiasm, tenacity and a real dynamic to his play that suits our high intensity game," said Stevenage boss Darren Sarll.

"I am really pleased to welcome Alex to the club and I am looking forward to working with him throughout next season."

Flynn told the Argus earlier today: “I’d like to keep Alex. We’ve tried to make contact with the agent and we’ll see where that goes.

“He’ll be one of those weighing up what else is out there but what I will say is we can bring him on and improve him as a player.

“We can help him fulfil his dreams of playing at a higher level but at the end of the day it’s going to be Alex’s decision.

“He’s really enjoyed, we’ve made him feel part of it and he’s wanted to be part of it but we’ll have to just wait and see.”

Samuel told the Stevenage official website: “I see a big opportunity with Stevenage and I see the potential in the club.

"I met with the gaffer and I could see what he wanted to do and I was completely on board with what he wanted, so I am looking forward to cracking on really.

“I like the style of football. I can see that the team want to play football but also know when to turn it in behind. It really fits into my style of play and I think I can give a lot to Stevenage.

“It is a big season for us next year to try push on and contend.

“With the season having just finished, it is nice to know my future is secure and I have a place to play football next season.”

Samuel was named Exiles player of the season award on Saturday.

“It was brilliant. I really enjoyed my time there," he added.

"I couldn’t have anything bad to say towards the club, manager or teammates.

"They gave me a great opportunity but it is a new chapter now for me and I can’t wait to get going.

“Obviously with the conditions it was difficult and you have to change your style of play a bit but I will run for every ball and contend everything.

“I know Darren has been watching me for a while now and that he is impressed. He knows exactly what he will get from me so that is key.”

Finally, the move has come just in time for Samuel who as he prepares to marry his fiancée, Rachael.

“I am getting married in a few weeks too so it has been all go at the moment!

"My and Rachael came down to the stadium yesterday and it was so great to see the place and meet everyone at the club. We had such a warm welcome.

“We are looking at properties and seeing where we might move to so it is a big change but it is really exciting.”