Hoban exit from Dundalk is imminent – report
The Galwegian surpassed Joey Donnelly’s goal scoring record last year – but his days in the black and white colours look numbered.
There’s renewed speculation that Dundalk’s all-time leading goal scorer Pat Hoban could be a Derry City player by the end of the week.
The striker and club captain has been continually linked with a move away from Oriel Park since the latter stages of last season, even though he still has a year left to run on his Dundalk deal.
The Argus is reporting that Dundalk were hoping to secure a player from Derry in part exchange, possibly Jordan McEneff.
But it now seems this won’t be the case, and it appears Hoban is on the verge of a move to the Brandywell for a small, undisclosed fee.
Hoban’s anticipated departure will heighten anxiety among Dundalk fans, about the lack of new faces coming into the club during the current close season.
The only new arrival so far has been midfielder Dara Keane from UCD, while there have been multiple departures, including Daniel Kelly, Keith Ward, and Darragh Leahy.
In addition, several other key players are currently out of contract.
Dundalk supporters will be disappointed to see their prolific scorer leave, as he surpassed Joey Donnelly’s goal-scoring record last year.
With his departure seemingly imminent, Hoban’s move could provide a much-needed boost for Derry City, who finished seventh in the League of Ireland Premier Division last season.
It is reported that Dundalk had initially hoped to secure a player from Derry in exchange for Hoban, potentially Jordan McEneff; however, it now seems that this possibility has fallen through.
While both clubs have remained tight-lipped about the details, it is believed that Hoban will make the switch to Derry for an undisclosed fee.
This transfer will surely disappoint Dundalk fans who were hoping for new signings to strengthen the squad during the close season.
So far, the club has only brought in midfielder Dara Keane from UCD, while experienced players such as Daniel Kelly, Keith Ward, and Darragh Leahy have left.
Furthermore, several key players are currently without contracts, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the team.
Dundalk will now be left to contemplate the potential void left by Hoban’s departure and the challenge of finding a suitable replacement to maintain their goal-scoring prowess.
As speculation continues to swirl, supporters eagerly await official confirmation regarding Pat Hoban’s future.
