Derry City lead the chase for Darragh Markey, James Clarke arousing interest from Dundee

DERRY BOUND?: Darragh Markey in action for Drogheda United. Pic: Ben McShane/Sportsfile.

Derry City are in pole position to recruit Drogheda United midfielder Darragh Markey if he embarks on a fresh challenge.

Markey produced a masterclass this time last year to helps Drogs lift the FAI Cup and the runners-up that day are looking to prise him to the north-west now that his contract is expiring.

The Candystripes last weekend finished runners-up in the Premier Division, guaranteeing a return to Europe next year.

Yet a Cork City victory in Sunday’s FAI Cup final will demote them from the Europa to the Conference League.

Derry boss Tiernan Lynch spoke about freshening up his squad for his second season at the helm.

Several of his squad are out of contract, with defender Sam Todd in talks with Bohemians.

Bohs will secure the final European spot if the Rebel Army are unable to deny Shamrock Rovers the double in Sunday’s decider at Lansdowne Road.

Their interest in Galway United’s American attacker Patrick Hickey, as reported in the Irish Examiner in the summer, has intensified. Confirmation of his arrival at Dalymount Park is expected shortly.

Bohs are, however, resigned to losing striker James Clarke.

His brace was crucial in their Saturday’s 4-1 win at Drogheda United that secured fourth spot but he has interest, at home and abroad.

Scottish Premiership club Dundee are among the suitors chasing the 24-year-old free agent in a deal that would see him move cross-channel on January 1.