Christmas comes early for Cliftonville fans as Shamrock Rovers target Joe Gormley signs new deal

Cliftonville fans were treated to an early Christmas present with news the club have fended off interest from Shamrock Rovers and Larne to tie striker Joe Gormley down until at least 2023.

The Belfast native, who is currently in his third spell with the Reds, had 18 months left to run on his existing deal with the club, which has now effectively tripled in length.

It means the 28-year-old is now unlikely to leave Solitude in the winter transfer window, with Irish League champions Crusaders another club thought to be interested in paying a fee.

With so long left on his contract, Gormley could have attracted a record transfer fee between two Irish clubs, with figures in excess of €70,000 suggested.

Gormley has been in scintillating form for the Belfast club this season, notching his 25^th goal of the campaign so far during Saturday’s dramatic 6-4 defeat to Institute at the Brandywell.

In October he surpassed the goalscoring record of 170 goals set by Kevin Barry 57 years ago, and now stands at 181 goals in just 260 appearances for the Reds.

“I can confidently speak for everyone associated with Cliftonville when I say how happy I am to have secured Joe on a new deal,” Cliftonville chairman Gerard Lawlor told the club’s website.

“He has been a reliable and consistent goalscorer in both of his spells with the Club and I know that this news will be a huge Christmas boost to our supporters.

“A lot of hard work has gone into getting this contract signed, sealed and delivered and the Committee here at Solitude are delighted that their efforts have achieved the desired result.”

The news will come as a blow to Shamrock Rovers, who let attacking players Gary Shaw and Brandon Miele leave for south Dublin rivals St Patrick’s Athletic in the past month.