Matty Smith has rocked St Pat’s by joining Derry City on a two-year deal while Dundalk are eying Hibs winger Steven Bradley.
Smith was a driving force behind the Saints second-placed finish last season which was capped off by FAI Cup glory.
The Scot was in high demand here, back in Scotland and he was also considering options in America.
But the 24-year-old forward - who initially made his name in Ireland with Waterford before switching to St Pat’s - has opted for the Candystripes.
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Matty to the club,” said Derry City boss Ruaidhri Higgins.
“He will add to the exciting attacking options we already have here, and myself along with all the coaching staff are really excited to get working with him.”
And Smith insists he is targeting trophies at Derry City who are expected to challenge this season under the backing of wealthy owner Philip O’Doherty.
Smith said: “The club has brought in some quality players recently and along with the lads who were already there, it’s now a really strong squad.
“I’m very impressed with what Ruaidhri is building here and I obviously worked with (assistant, Alan Reynolds) Renny at Waterford and know how good a coach he is.”
‘I’ve been to the Brandywell before and even with few fans in you always knew you were in for a tough game.
“I’m really excited to be a part of this and am very much looking forward to playing in front of a packed house there.”
Derry have also tied academy prospects Caoimhin Porter and Orrin McLaughlin to one year contracts after impressing around the senior squad.
Dundalk could swoop for Hibs winger Bradley, who is under contract with the Edinburgh club until July.
The 19-year-old joined Hibs from Queens Park in 2019 and made four appearances before playing regularly in the Scottish Championship while on loan at Ayr.
Bradley was recalled to Hbs this month and came off the bench in their recent 2-0 SPL defeat to Celtic.
