Leyton Orient have completed the signing of Moldova Under-21 international Cristian Păscăluță on an initial short-term contract.
The 20-year-old midfielder has been training with Richie Wellens’ first-team squad in recent weeks and has now earned an opportunity with the League One club.
His registration remains subject to international clearance, the granting of a work permit and approval from the relevant football authorities.
Păscăluță began his senior career with CSCA Buiucani in his native Moldova before going on to represent CSF Bălți, CSF Spartanii Selemet and CS Petrocub. His time with Petrocub included experience in the qualifying rounds of the UEFA Conference League.
The midfielder most recently returned to Spartanii Selemet for a second spell before being handed the opportunity to train with Orient.
Director of Football Scott Mitchell explained that Păscăluță had been recommended to the club earlier in the summer and made a positive impression during his trial period.
“Cristian was brought to our attention earlier this summer and he has had the opportunity to train with our first-team squad recently.
“He is a combative midfielder with a good range of passing and has made a good impression during his time training with the club. He needs to continue his development in training and then can look to earn himself a longer contract and challenge for a place in our squad.”
Păscăluță described himself as a ball-winning midfielder who can also help Orient begin attacks with his passing.
“I am very happy to get this opportunity to represent Leyton Orient. I have enjoyed my time training with the squad, everyone has been very welcoming and I believe that I have done well.
“I am a midfield player that likes to win the ball for my team and start attacks with my passing ability. I am going to work extremely hard to try and earn my chance to play.”
The short-term agreement gives Păscăluță the opportunity to continue his development in England while attempting to earn a longer contract and force his way into Wellens’ League One squad.
Orient are currently ninth in League One after taking seven points from their opening five matches, with impressive away victories over Wigan Athletic and Bromley followed by a draw at Luton Town. Having finished 11th in 2023/24 before climbing to sixth the following season, the O’s will hope Păscăluță can provide additional midfield depth as they attempt to mount another challenge towards the top end of the division.
