McLaughlin joins Blackpool

Former Athletic midfielder Ryan McLaughlin (left)

There has been another departure from Athletic after midfielder Ryan McLaughlin penned a two-year deal at Blackpool.

It's been revealed that McLaughlin (23) rejected an offer of a contract from Athletic, instead choosing to further his career at Blackpool instead.

The Northern Ireland international, capped five times by his country, was out of contract at Boundary Park at the end of last season, and has told the Seasiders' official website that he’s delighted to finally get a deal done.

“It’s been on the cards for a while and I’m delighted to finally get it all done," said McLaughlin.

"I’m looking forward to getting into training now and seeing all the lads.

"I talked to the manager (Gary Bowyer) and I got a really good feel for the club when I was speaking to him.”

Due to McLaughlin’s age, compensation had to be agreed between Athletic and Blackpool before the move could go ahead.

That appears to have now been sorted with McLaughlin calling time on two seasons at Boundary Park.

In total he made 61 appearances for Athletic after joining from Liverpool in 2016.

Reacting to the move, Blackpool boss Bowyer said: “I’m absolutely delighted to bring Ryan to the club.

"We have been working very hard on this deal all summer and his desire to join us has been incredible.

"He’s an exciting addition capable of playing in a variety of positions and, in my opinion, he has all the qualities to play at a higher level.

"We’re looking forward to bringing that talent out during his time with us.”

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