Horgan set to leave Cork City

Extratime.ie have this evening learned that Ireland under 21 international Daryl Horgan will not be re-signing for Cork City for the coming season.

In a move that will undoubtedly be one of the more eye-catching switches this off-season, Horgan has been linked with Shamrock Rovers and Dundalk with the latter believed to be in pole position.

Having originally joined the Leesiders on loan from Sligo Rovers halfway through the 2011 season, Horgan made his move permanent at the end of that season when he signed a two year deal.

Since then Horgan has turned in some impressive performances for the Rebel Army and in 2013, when his side began to struggle in the league, the Galway born winger continued to dazzle with top-drawer strikes away to Derry City and at home against Drogheda.

Recognition from his peers was inevitable, and Horgan featured in the PFAI team of the year while also being shortlisted for the Young Player of the Year award alongside his potential new teammates Patrick Hoban and Richie Towell.

Such a transfer would mark a real signal of intent from either Dundalk and Shamrock Rovers as the sides look to overthrow champions St Patrick’s Athletic in 2014.

Horgan has recently returned from the UK where he was on trial with Torquay and Barnsley, but it is believed that neither club tabled a sufficient offer for the former Salthill Devon player.

Horgan is currently 21 years old, so any transfer to the UK would result in compensation for the Rebel Army as he is under 23. The situation is slightly more complicated if the winger moves to another League of Ireland club, with a smaller compensation required.

The departure of Daryl Horgan will be a big blow for Cork City may force their new manager John Caulfield manager back into the market, after previously hinting that last Friday’s capture of Michael Rafter might be the last new arrival at Turner’s Cross.

Extratime.ie understand that no deal with either club has been struck, but as the situation develops we will bring all the latest including any reaction.