Carlos Mendes Gomes believes Wanderers are heading in the right direction – and is excited to be along for the ride.

Mendes Gomes has put pen to paper over a three-year deal at Bolton and arrives from the Hatters for an undisclosed fee.

The versatile attacker spent last season on loan at Fleetwood, scoring 10 goals in 38 games for Scott Brown’s side.

“My family is based in Manchester, and my friends, and it’s always nice to come back home,” he told the club website.

“Everyone knows the size of Bolton Wanderers. It’s a huge club that was in the Premier League in the past.

“I remember knowing about Bolton when I was kid, so it’s a big step up for me and hopefully things go well.

“I went on loan last year and did pretty well and at the age I am right now I want to be playing regular football.

“Out of all the options I had, I thought Bolton would be the best decision and I’m delighted to be here.”

Senegal-born Mendes Gomes made a name for himself at Morecambe, helping the Shrimps secure promotion to League One during the 2020/21 campaign.

He scored a stunning strike for Fleetwood during a 2-1 defeat against Wanderers at the Highbury Stadium last season.

“I’ve felt it as a rival, the fans are top class here and always behind the team,” he continued. “I can’t wait to actually be out there and meet up with all of them.

“I remember that game. The manager reminded me about it and today in the meeting he brought it up again, but hopefully I can score many goals for Bolton.

“Credit to the team-mates I had before. Without them I wouldn’t be able to achieve it – and the managers I worked with. I hope things go well at Bolton and long may it continue.

“It’s always nice to be on the pitch and help the team in any way, whether that’s scoring goals or creating chances for other people to actually score.

“I know Bolton were very unlucky to miss out on the play-off final and losing in the semi-final, but it just shows what direction this club is heading in.

“It’s a massive club with massive objectives and hopefully we can meet that this season.”