Carlisle United are on the verge of completing their first signing since being relegated from League Two to the National League.

According to Pete O’Rourke, Altrincham striker Regan Linney is soon to arrive at Brunton Park after impressing in last season’s fifth tier.

Having recently committed himself to the club, Mark Hughes is seeking to assemble a squad capable of firing the Cumbrians straight back to the EFL. The former Wales boss has wasted little time in commencing his preseason plans.

Linney Set for New Beginnings

It is to the surprise of no one to see Regan Linney attracting attention early in the summer. The 28-year-old finished the 2024/25 season as the National League’s second-leading scorer, with only York City’s Ollie Pearce netting more than him. Linney scored 23 times in his 42 league appearances for the Robins last term.

The Preston-born striker also chipped in with seven assists. His 30-goal involvements were a major factor in Altrincham’s valiant attempts at landing a play-off spot. While Linney’s attempts may have ultimately been futile towards that particular aim, his performances certainly didn’t go unnoticed.

While the journey up the M6 is relatively short, it may feel longer for Lancashire native Linney. Carlisle will be the first club for which he has played situated outside of the Red Rose county.

He spent three seasons at FC United of Manchester having joined from Bamber Bridge, before making the big move to join Altrincham in the National League. The imminent move to freshly relegated Carlisle provides a very real possibility of breaking into the Football League.

Carlisle United Look to Bounce Back Quickly

Ever since their play-off final promotion to League One in May 2023, Carlisle United has had desperately little to cheer. Back-to-back relegations has seen them lose their Football League status, and in need of a rebuild.

The arrival of Hughes in February breathed new life into the Cumbrian’s survival fight. In a short space of time, the 61-year-old established a strong relationship with players and fans alike.

The upturn in results and the much-needed feel-good factor left the Carlisle board desperate for Hughes to stay at Brunton Park. Having failed in the great escape last season, Hughes appears determined to bring them straight back.

“Since joining back in February, the support I’ve received from the fans has been exceptional – thank you.”

“I hope to see more of the same next season as we aim for an immediate return to the EFL.” Mark Hughes to Carlisle United Club Website

Can Carlisle Balance Out Goings with Incomings

Despite their relegation, Carlisle actually finished the League Two strongly, gaining some momentum ahead of next season. Many senior players were released including Sam Lavelle, Callum Guy, and academy product turned Wembley hero Taylor Charters, bringing the need for reinforcements.

The early pursuit of Linney suggests that Carlisle is starting from the front as they seek to strengthen. Matthew Dennis’ future remains in doubt as he has reportedly been offered deals from various EFL clubs as reported by Football League World. He has also been offered a new deal by Carlisle, but the 23-year-old continues to consider his options.

After two seasons of struggle at Brunton Park, the Carlisle faithful will be hoping their new prolific centre forward can bring the good times back.