Sam Smith is “excited” to be back at Cambridge after signing a permanent two-year deal at the club.

The 23-year-old striker enjoyed a successful loan spell with the U’s in 2019-20, scoring eight goals.

Smith, who helped Cheltenham to promotion from Sky Bet League Two last season, was allowed to leave Reading on a free transfer and is delighted to be back with Cambridge.

“It’s good to be back,” he told the club’s website. “I really enjoyed it last time I was here and that did play a bit factor.

“When you are happy somewhere you play your best football and even when I was with other teams, I have always looked at Cambridge scores as it is a place that means a lot to me.

“As a player you want to be settled and I am really excited to call this my home now.”