New signing: Luton sign Grimsby forward then loan him back for season 

Luton Town have signed Grimsby Town forward John McAtee for an undisclosed fee and loaned him back to the League Two side for the season. 

The 23-year-old helped fire the Mariners to promotion from the National League last season, finding the net 16 times in all competitions, including the opener in the play-off final victory over Solihull Moors. 

McAtee, who has also played for Shrewsbury and Scunthorpe, told the club’s website: “I see this as a big opportunity for myself coming to the Championship and I’m delighted to get it done.

“I want to get more game time under my belt so when I’m back here next year, I’m ready to go.

“The manager explained to me the values of the club, and it’s clear to see anyway that the club is going in the right direction. We spoke about a plan for me, which sounded good.”

Talking about his season-long loan back to Grimsby, McAtee said: “The main reason for me was just to get game time.

“I know the gaffer at Grimsby because I was with him at Shrewsbury and Scunthorpe, so it was a no-brainer because I knew I would go there and play and do well, which I did.  

“Scoring in the play-off final was definitely the highlight of my career to date. I loved every minute of last season, it was brilliant.  

“I’m sure everyone in football has seen Luton Town’s rise for themselves. They’ve made that climb quite remarkably when you look at how they’ve done it.

“I’ve definitely taken notice of it and seen the progression, and hopefully this year, for me personally and for Grimsby, I can try and help them get another promotion too.”