Wrexham and Lincoln City are among the clubs in a race for Newport County midfielder Shane McLoughlin, according to Football Insider.
The Irishman has also attracted interest from a second SkyBet League One club and a potential Championship suitor.
Pete O’Rourke reports that the four sides are “weighing up” moves for the midfielder this January.
Who is Shane McLoughlin?
26-year-old McLoughlin has impressed during his time in Wales, scoring six and assisting seven across 36 games so far this season.
He has been an ever-present for Newport this term, arriving from fellow League Two side Salford City in the summer.
McLoughlin was born in New York City, before moving to the Republic of Ireland during his childhood. He has represented the Emerald Isle at both under-16 and under-18 level.
The midfielder has played 95% of the minutes in league games this season.
He come through the Ipswich Town academy, enjoying two loan spells at Bromley before leaving to join AFC Wimbledon permanently in 2019.
The hard-working McLoughlin joined the Class of ’92’s Salford last January, after a spell at then League One Morecambe.
Four horse race
As well as Lincoln City and Wrexham, League One outfit Wycombe Wanderers and Championship side Rotherham United are in the race to sign McLoughlin.
According to O’Rouke’s report, McLoughlin’s potential buyers are set to watch him during the FA Cup tie with Manchester United this weekend.
The midfielder has spent most of his career in the English third-tier, but did make one appearance in the Championship during his time at Ipswich.
Writer’s View:
Shane McLoughlin is a sought-after acquisition this January – and for good reason. He’s versatile, hard-working, and enjoying his best season to date.
The 26-year-old has packed a wealth of EFL experiences into his career so far.
Reporting on Lincoln City has made it clear that McLoughlin’s level of experience is exactly what the club is after in this transfer window. I think he would be a great addition to Michael Skubala’s side, but the other suitors could very well win the race.