EXCLUSIVE: Blackpool interested in signing Shamrock Rovers full back Andy Lyons

Blackpool are negotiating with Shamrock Rovers over a deal for full back Andy Lyons after an initial bid was rejected, it's understood.

The 21-year-old right back would ease the Seasiders strain in that position with Jordan Gabriel set to miss the start of the season through injury, having received interest in his services earlier in the window. An initial bid, believed to be in the region of a total of £100,000, was rejected for the full back whose contract expires in November 2023 and Blackpool are expected to return with a further bid.

Lyons has been discussing personal terms with the club with hopes of a move to the Championship and is already well underway this season as part of the Champions League qualification rounds with Shamrock - going through against Hibernians. The Republic of Ireland is increasingly becoming a market of interest for EFL clubs with young talents like Danny Mandroiu already joining Lincoln City this summer.

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.

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