ST MIRREN boss Danny Lennon is looking to conclude the signing of a French striker who he believes can make an even bigger impact than Esmael Goncalves managed last season.

Goncalves arrived on loan from Rio Ave for the second half of the campaign and scored eight goals in 16 appearances, including strikes in the semi-final and final of the League Cup.

Now Lennon is hoping his French target can be similarly influential as Saints look to get themselves away from the foot of the Premiership table.

If international clearance is received in time, the new man could make his debut in tonight's League Cup tie away to Queen of the South.

Lennon said: "I hope this lad has a longer and more sustainable impact that Esmael did when he was with us.

"He's not so much hurly-burly but he's one with presence, great pace, great desire and work ethic.

"He's someone who wants to better himself as he is not happy where he is on the fringes of a big club in France.

"He wants to come here. We have a history and pedigree of using the loan system and once again it's about building relationships with other clubs, helping and developing their player, and in turn he can help us on the goal front."

Lennon is desperate for his team to avoid the same fate as Kilmarnock whose defence of the League Cup ended at the first hurdle last year.

He added: "Everybody wants to knock out the holders and they go out and raises their game. The previous season's winners Kilmarnock went out to Stenhousemuir and we don't want to suffer a similar fate."