Notts County are lining up a summer switch for Ross County forward Ronan Hale, following his continuation of form during the opening of the 2025/26 campaign thus far.
The Magpies were held to a 1-1 draw on the opening day of the season against Newport County, with a Jodi Jones penalty rescuing a point.
With David McGoldrick having departed in the summer, Notts County are still likely to be in the market for another forward despite already bringing in Matthew Dennis from Carlisle United.
Notts County eye Hale switch
As reported by journalist Alan Nixon, Notts County are lining up a move for Ross County star Ronan Hale before the transfer window closes this summer.
The forward had an impressive stint with the club last season and despite their relegation from the SPFL, he stayed put and has carried his form over to the new campaign.
According to Nixon, Notts County manager Martin Patterson is set to go to Scotland and watch Hale in person, who already has interest from several sides in the Scottish Premiership.
How did he fare last season?
After arriving from Cliftonville where he netted 50 goals in 79 appearances, Hale immediately began as he meant to go on in Scotland.
During his debut campaign (last season), Hale struck 18 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions including a brace against Motherwell in February.
Despite their eventual relegation from the top flight, he has continued to impress for the club and has so far scored four goals in five appearances during the 2025/26 season.
This included a hat-trick during an 8-0 victory against Edinburgh City last month.
Can Hale be the difference maker for Notts County?
Over the last three seasons, Notts County have been a side that have mostly relied on one player to score the goals – these involve both Macaulay Langstaff and David McGoldrick.
However, this time around it appears initially as though Notts would lean more towards a sharing of the goals rather than rely on one player.
Hale would be their latest attacking addition if a deal can be agreed, and he certainly knows where the back of the net is.
Notts’ only goal so far was scored by winger Jodi Jones so it’s likely that more striking options could be on the cards.
He would contribute to the goals and add some versatility to the attacking line at the same time.