LOUIS Reed has left Swindon Town with immediate effect in order to join League Two rivals Mansfield Town for an undisclosed fee.

The midfielder's contract at the County Ground was due to expire in the summer, and with Reed refusing to sign a new deal, Swindon were forced to cash in on one of their star assets this month.

The 25-year-old agreed an 18-month contract at Mansfield and will play under Nigel Clough at Field Mill - the man who gave Reed his professional debut at Sheffield United aged 16.

The Barnsley-born player was spotted at Mansfield's 1-1 draw at home to Crewe Alexandra on Saturday alongside his agent.

In a statement from the Stags, manager Nigel Clough said: “We’re extremely pleased that we’ve managed to sign Louis.

“He’s a player who we gave his debut to at 16 years old at Sheffield United and someone who we’ve maintained an interest in in the past few years.

“After losing Anthony Hartigan for the rest of the season, Louis comes in as a direct replacement."

On Twitter, Reed said: "Big thanks to everyone at Swindon for the last 18 months.

"One of my most enjoyable times in football. Didn’t work out how I’d have liked this season but want to wish you all the best for the future."

Reed joined Swindon back in August 2021 from Peterborough United, and following an impressive debut season at the County Ground, was voted the club’s Players’ Player of the Year.

In total, Reed played 67 times for Swindon and scored four goals with four assists to his name, many of which came last season as the Robins defied the majority of pre-season predictions to reach the League Two play-offs.

The 25-year-old's standard of performance dropped considerably this year, however, and he scored just one goal - a penalty which handed Swindon a 1-0 victory away at Barrow - while moving in and out of the team under former coach Scott Lindsey.

Reed's final appearance in a Swindon shirt involved playing 68 minutes of the club's 1-0 defeat away at Colchester United on New Year's Day.

In a statement from Swindon, the club said: "The football club would like to take this opportunity to thank Louis for all his efforts during his time with us, and wish him all the very best for the future."

Reed may return to the County Ground with the Stags on Good Friday - April 7 - when Swindon host Mansfield in League Two.