SAM PARKIN'S decision to swap the bright lights of Chelsea for the more rural surroundings of Wiltshire has brought a huge smile to the face of Andy King.

Attempts to secure a three-month loan deal for the 21-year-old had looked increasingly forlorn but the picture changed drastically when Chelsea revealed the player was available for sale at a 'bargain' price.

Town will end up paying the Blues £50,000 based on appearances - a snip in the Town manager's eyes.

Parkin looked destined to return to Stamford Bridge this week but Claudio Ranieri finally agreed the striker would be better off at the County Ground.

King said: "Chelsea have been fantastic over the deal.

"Sir Seton and James Wills spoke to Chelsea personally and a lot of hard work has been done by a lot of people to get the player here.

"Personal terms have been agreed, it's just a question of waiting for Football League approval and Sam passing a medical.

"I think it is a wonderful piece of business by the club.

"Sam could end up costing us £50,000 and I think that's a great deal when you look at the market value of other players that were on my wish list.

"For example, Chris Killen has just left Manchester City to go to Oldham for £200,000.

"Sam has scored three goals in three and I think Chelsea's assistant boss Gwyn Williams, who was here on Saturday, saw Sam playing his football with a smile.

"He reported back to Chelsea and I think it was decided that it would be beneficial for the boy to come here.

"I can only thank Chelsea for helping both the boy and this football club.

"Make no mistake, I feel very lucky to have acquired a player of his class and stature for next to nothing."

King was reluctant to let the player speak until the deal was signed and sealed, and he was due to be officially unveiled by the club today.