Derry City poised to sign ex Sheffield United defender Danny Lafferty

Derry City boss, Declan Devine has been in talks with the player about a return to his hometown club and it's understood both parties are close to agreeing terms.

The news will come as a significant boost to Devine, who is in the process of rebuilding his first team panel, and the City support after a raft of departures at the club over recent weeks.

With regular left-back Ciaran Coll recently committing to a new two-year deal with the club, Lafferty's return will give Devine plenty of options at the back.

The versatile Lafferty, who was part of Shamrock Rovers' 2020 title winning side, played in a left wing-back position for Stephen Bradley's side while he can also operate at left-back and centre half.

Lafferty, who made 50 appearances for Derry and won the First Division title in 2010, last week told the 'Journal' he was 'open-minded' about a return to the Brandywell.

"It’s definitely something I would be open to if Derry were to make an offer," said Lafferty last week.

"I’m a Derry City fan so of course I would love to play for Derry again. It’s pretty much the one team I support."

Devine and Technical Director, Paddy McCourt have been scouring the country in search of players and the City boss expects to announce new signings soon.

"The management team is working flat out at the minute, looking for and talking to players who are the right fit for this football club," said Devine.



"We have to base our plans on the season starting around the usual time and that means pre-season beginning as normal early in January.



"We've already agreed an extension with Ciaran Coll and I expect we'll have more news of players coming in this week and over the next few weeks.

"We're obviously looking to strengthen the whole group. I hope to have a bit of news over the course of the next week.

"We will strike when the time's right but at the minute it's an opportunity for us to get around and meet a lot of players and that's what we're doing.

"Once again I thank our supporters for their continued backing and assure them that the work to build the squad goes on."