BRYAN HUGHES described the arrival of JJ Hooper as a "big signing" for Wrexham.

The 25-year-old striker, released at the end of last season by Grimsby Town, became a wanted man after scoring 19 goals in 25 games during a loan spell with National League rivals Bromley.

But despite attracting interest from Football League clubs, Hooper has signed a one-year deal at The Racecourse and Hughes says the frontman is a key addition to his squad.

"It is hard to get these strikers in," said Hughes. "There are a lot of suitors out there, especially for people who score goals, and 19 goals in 25 games is going to get admirers.

"He's obviously had aspirations of playing back in the Football League.

"He sees us as a big club to try and take us back there which is pleasing. He had offers on the table from league clubs as well so another big signing for us, to try and fend them off and get him signed up with us."

Hughes says Hooper will have a big part to play when Wrexham kick-off a 12th season in non-league.

"I identified JJ as a main target and it took a few weeks to get it over the line," added Hughes. "But I am absolutely delighted he has signed.

"He is proven at this level. He got 19 goals at Bromley last season in 25 games so I am hoping he will come in and do the job for us.

"He is a Football League player. He has been at Grimsby, Northampton and Port Vale, scored goals in League One and League Two, so he is going to have a big part to play next year.

"I think he will do really well for us. He is the type of striker that I think we have been missing.

"Not just his goals, which will be key, but his all-round play."