Derry City have agreed a deal that will see Michael Duffy rejoin the club for next season.
The highly-rated winger has signed a pre-contract arrangement to seal a return to the Brandywell.
The four-year deal will bring to an end a highly successful stint at Dundalk.
DUFFY'S COMING HOME ✍️
Michael Duffy has signed a pre-contract with the club which will see him return to Derry City at the end of the current campaign on a 4-year deal.https://t.co/VWdf0gMDBz pic.twitter.com/0ad4wDqnMN— Derry City FC (@derrycityfc) September 29, 2021
The acquisition of Duffy represents another significant step for Derry City.
They have also secured the services of Duffy's Dundalk teammate - and fellow Derry man - Patrick McEleney for 2022.
The Foylesiders have had a turbulent year, but their form has improved.
The arrival of Ruaidhri Higgins - who replaced Declan Devine early in the season - coincided with a better run in the league.
They're now within touching distance of a European place.
Derry sit in fourth position, three points adrift of Sligo Rovers in third.
The news of Duffy's impending arrival will be another shot in the arm for the club.
He has enjoyed a trophy-laden period at Dundalk, since joining in 2017.
Duffy was part of the league-winning sides of 2018 and 2019, and also earned two FAI Cup medals in 2018 and 2020.
Prior to his arrival at the Louth club, Duffy was at Celtic.
He has attracted interest cross-channel in recent times, but the lure of a return home appears to be a significant factor in his decision.
With McEleney and Duffy now guaranteed to arrive, there's also speculation linking Will Patching with a return to the Candystripes.
He enjoyed a productive loan spell at the club earlier this season, before returning to Dundalk.
Michael Duffy has signed pre-contract agreement with Derry City - the speculation is accurate
Informed Dundalk of decision over the weekend
Taking a paycut to go home but Derry were able to offer a four year deal which is a statement
Details 👇https://t.co/nJz4UbeBD9— Daniel McDonnell (@McDonnellDan) September 29, 2021
