Blackpool target Andy Lyons transfer as Seasiders make second bid for Shamrock Rovers prospect

Blackpool have lodged a second bid for Shamrock Rovers full back Andy Lyons.

The 21-year-old would help fill a priority area for Blackpool as they remain without a fit natural right back ahead of the Championship season. Lyons, who can also fill in at left back, is close to agreeing personal terms with the Seasiders.

A first bid believed to be around £100k was rejected by Rovers, who are understood to be holding out for a larger fee then most other departures from the League of Ireland this summer. The second bid is believed to be in the region of £200k with an expectation that this will be enough to secure his services with informal offers placed in the interim to attain an acceptable valuation for the player.

Lyons is with Shamrock Rovers for their European qualifier against Ludogorets of Bulgaria which takes place on Tuesday, but should the bid be accepted those plans may well change.

The full back is a highly rated prospect in his native country and an U21 international. Five goals and six assists in 20 League of Ireland appearances in 2022 speaks volumes of his ability from wing back, having picked up the league's player of the month award in April.

He made the decision to switch Bohemians for Shamrock at the start of 2022 but has already impressed enough to attract EFL interest. Already amassing 102 senior appearances in his professional career despite his age, Lyons could well join the increasing list of names making the switch to England. With an eye for arriving late at the back post in attacking situations and consistently being a threat as an aggressive wing back, Lyons would suit what Michael Appleton is looking to do with this Blackpool side.

Right back is a priority area for Michael Appleton and he