Oldham Athletic have signed Crewe striker Bassala Sambou on loan until the end of the season.

The move from Gresty Road to Boundary Park reunites the 25-year-old with Latics boss David Unsworth, who he worked with at Everton.

Born in Hannover, Germany, Sambou’s career in England began at Coventry before he spent three years in the academy at Finch Farm.

He signed for Crewe in January 2022 and went on to make almost 50 appearances, including 24 league starts for the Railwaymen.

“I’m very happy to be here at a great club and I’m really looking forward to using this opportunity to show what I can do,” said Sambou, who is out of contract in the summer.

“I’m a centre forward who likes to use my pace and energy in attack and work hard to trouble defences.

“Of all the managers I’ve had, Unsy has probably been the one I’ve enjoyed working with the most and has had a big influence on my development.

“He took me on when I was 18 and have always been grateful for everything he’s taught me so I’m looking forward to working with him again.”

Sambou initially joined Coventry as a 15-year-old and, after progressing through the youth ranks, made his senior debut in November 2015 after impressing as a quick, athletic player both on and off the ball.

He moved to Everton the following summer, playing under Unsworth in the U23s side.

Sambou later moved to Holland with Fortuna Sittard, playing 33 times in the Eredivisie, and also spent time on loan in Denmark.

Sambou scored three times for Crewe, including the winner against Leyton Orient in the FA Cup this season.

Unsworth had looked to strengthen his attacking options following news that Alex Reid faces a spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

And he is looking forward to working with the forward again.

“Bas is a player I’ve known really well and have worked closely with him before,” said the Latics boss.

“I brought him to Everton from Coventry when he was a young player and I’ve seen him develop. He’s got great energy, a strong work-rate and technically he’s very good.

“He can score different types of goals, I’ve been keeping an eye on him throughout the season and it’s a good opportunity for us to have a look at him in the games that remain this season.”

Sambou will travel with the squad for tomorrow's game at Dagenham and Redbridge and is eligible to make his debut this weekend.