The League of Ireland continues to be a breeding ground for young talent, and Lincoln City have utilised it well in the past.
The signing of midfielder Jack Moylan from Shelbourne last year has proven to be a shrewd piece of business, cherry-picking some of the top talent on the Emerald Isle.
Now, there are fresh options that the Imps could look to poach this summer, as they look to build towards another campaign in Sky Bet League One.
Defensively, Lincoln have work to do, but in midfielder they may have a shopping list as well. Scottish 24-year-old Ethan Erhahon is attracting reported interest from Championship side Swansea City, and a move is a real possibility before City start their preparations for the upcoming season.
In that context, The Deck spoke to the founder of the Irish Football Blog, Bill Gaine, to get an expert-view on three central midfielders that could make for good Imps signings.
Patrick Hickey – Galway United:
American midfielder Patrick Hickey has an interesting back-story. The 26-year-old left a steady job in USA to try his hand at football in Ireland, and has had success in the years that have followed.
He had two seasons at Athlone Town before moving to his current club Galway United, where he is now into his second campaign.
In his previous club, he was almost exclusively a centre-back. But, he has now moved up the pitch and would be a strong midfield option.
Bill said: “What’s interesting has been his evolution since signing for Galway United where’s he’s been used higher up the pitch occasionally as a central midfielder, but more often even further up as an attacking midfielder.”
At 6”5′, Hickey does not lack in the physical department, and is perhaps more technically sound than he is given credit for. The Galway man could be a good signing for Lincoln City, as he is a brilliant duel winner both on the ground and aerially as well.
Kian Leavy – St. Patrick’s Athletic:
Kain Leavy, who was formerly on the books of League One side Reading, has been involved with the Republic of Ireland at under-15s, under-18s, under-20s and under-21s level.
He now has close to 80 senior games, across both with Shelbourne and now St. Patrick’s Athletic. The 23-year-old can play in attacking midfielder or on the wings, but is primarily a tactically versatile central midfielder.
Bill said: “He has been described by Stephen Kenny as very versatile with a high work ethic, high skill level and a consummate professional.”
Lincoln City may need to sign a new central midfielder this summer, especially if Erhahon moves into the Championship. A signing like Leavy would certainly boost their ranks.
Evan McLaughlin – Cork City:
Evan McLaughlin joined Cork City in January 2024, and the 23-year-old has since played close to 50 games.
He played for hometown club Derry City before his switch, and had a loan stint at Northern Ireland-based outfit Coleraine. The central midfielder is strong technically and despite his size is tenacious in the middle of the park.
Bill, who has also recommended five defenders that could be a good fit for the Imps, said: “Evan is a hugely underrated footballer, versatile, and can play anywhere from attacking midfield, central midfield, or even at left-back.”
Lincoln City could well dip back into the League of Ireland to find midfield replacements this summer, with ex-Hull City man Sam Clucas released by the club and a much bigger gap potentially opening up if Erhahon moves on for a seven-figure fee.