Hoffenheim test Rovers' resolve with improved bid for €2m-rated Michael Noonan

TRANSFER NOISE: Michael Noonan of Shamrock Rovers celebrates. Pic: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

Bundesliga outfit TSG Hoffenheim have made an improved third bid to prise €2m-rated Michael Noonan away from champions Shamrock Rovers before Monday’s transfer deadline.

It’s understood the club – currently third in the German top-flight – recently had two offers rejected but Rovers are considering a better package received which is nearer their valuation.

Noonan stunned St Patrick’s Athletic by moving to their Dublin rivals 12 months ago, making an instant impact by scoring against Molde to become the youngest scorer in Conference League history.

He went on to reach double-figures in all competitions as the Hoops claimed their first domestic double since 1987.

As he doesn’t turn 18 until July, Brexit regulations prevent Noonan joining a UK club in this window but Hoffenheim can take him immediately if terms can be brokered. 

Significant add-ons, including a sell-on clause, will form part of any deal.

Rovers have facilitated the increased interest in their teen star by allowing him to visit clubs, like a trip to Celtic for the Old Firm derby, and he was absent from last week’s friendlies.

As Noonan’s two-year contract expires at the end of the season, Rovers will factor into their decision-making reduced leverage if their last chance to cash in becomes the summer window.

Stephen Bradley’s side open their campaign on Saturday in the traditional curtain-raiser, the President’s Cup, against a Derry City bolstered by last week’s capture of James McClean.