Bannsiders seal deal for Kirk McLaughlin to return to The Showgrounds as Coleraine have eyes set on further additions

The striker – who made his debut for Coleraine in the 2021/22 campaign – re-joins the club after a spell with Glentoran.

McLaughlin would also enjoy fruitful loan spells away from The Oval at Loughgall and Institute, where he helped the former gain promotion to the top flight.

The 20-year-old stated that a move back to his hometown team was too good to turn down as the Bannsiders get ready for full-time football this upcoming season.

“I can't wait to get started to be honest, coming back to my hometown club and scoring goals. I have been coming here since I was a boy and it's just mad now that I've got the opportunity to come here and play full-time professional football.

"My family will all be down watching because my Dad's a big Coleraine fan so that's the best thing about it.”

Head coach Shiels added: “Kirk is one we are really excited to get, he’s a local boy, he knows the club and has good connections to the club but most importantly is he’s a good player with those natural goal scoring instincts.”

The Bannsiders announced the loan arrival of defender Kyle McClelland yesterday, whilst also capturing Cameron Stewart following his release from Ipswich Town.

The News Letter understands that Coleraine are also chasing the signatures of goalkeeper Aidan McAdams who was recently released by Larne, midfielder Charlie Lindsay who is currently at Derby County, as well as Ballymena United ace Dylan Boyle who operates as a central midfielder.