'Valuable addition': Linfield complete deal for former Larne defender as first summer recruit arrives at Windsor Park
Linfield have got their hands on their first recruit of the summer as defender Ryan Nolan has agreed terms at Windsor Park.
The big defender has agreed a two-year deal with the Blues after the expiry of his contract at league champions Larne.
Born in Co Clare in the Republic of Ireland, the 27-year-old spent the majority of his youth career in Spain before being spotted by scouts at Italian giants Inter Milan.
Since then, Nolan’s career has taking in various countries across Europe, featuring in Italy, Spain, England and Scotland.
He has represented clubs including Getafe, Northampton Town, Raith Rovers and Hércules, where he helped the latter secure promotion to the Primera RFEF in Spain.
Nolan moved to the Irish League in September 2024 and made almost 50 appearances for Larne, helping the Inver Reds lift the Gibson Cup last season.
At international level, Nolan has represented the Republic of Ireland at Under-16, Under-17 and Under-18 levels.
Manager David Healy welcomed the latest addition to his Linfield squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
He told Linfield’s official website: “Ryan is a player we’ve admired for some time. He brings excellent experience, leadership qualities and a real presence at the back.
"He has played in several different countries and leagues, and we believe he will be a valuable addition to our group both on and off the pitch.”
Speaking about his new move, Nolan said: "I had a very good two years at Larne and we won the league last season.
“But when I got the interest from Linfield, obviously I was very interested and we came to an agreement over a few days.
"I’m excited to get started and hopefully do well for the club.
"I’ve been in the league for two years now...I know what it’s about, it’s very physical, it’s a good standard, so I’m looking forward to get started with the boys and hopefully have a good season.
"I’ve had my battles with Fitzy (Matthew Fitzpatrick) and (Kieran) Offord, so it’ll be good to play with them now because they are good centre-forwards.
"I’m looking forward to playing the friendlies and then the European qualifiers.”