Maidstone United’s 20-goal striker Levi Amantchi joins Bromley for an undisclosed fee

Maidstone top scorer Levi Amantchi has made a shock move away from the Gallagher Stadium.

The 20-goal striker has joined Bromley after the National League promotion hopefuls activated a release clause in his contract.

Stones chief executive Bill Williams said: “Let me say from the outset that we are all very disappointed to see Levi go and I know that view will be shared by everyone at our club.

“He’s been a revelation this season and his goals have played a crucial part in our league and cup success to date.

“I truly believed he would see out this season with us, despite the interest we were expecting leading up to and during the January transfer window.

“He expressed a wish to stay and we offered terms to extend his contract.

“However, Bromley made him an exceptional offer that he felt he couldn’t turn down and we simply couldn’t compete with it.”

Amantchi, 23, hadn’t played for Maidstone since being stretchered off during the first half of their FA Cup second-round win over Barrow a fortnight ago.

He wasn't expected back until the end of January, according to Williams, who said the club were working on a replacement.

Stones boss George Elokobi said last month Amantchi deserved any interest that came his way after his impressive form since a summer move from Brackley.

A week later, the forward scored one of the best goals ever seen at the Gallagher Stadium – a stunning solo effort against Havant that Elokobi said should go viral.