As reported by Oisin Doherty of Irish Mirror Sport, Notts have had two bids rejected for Drogheda United defender Conor Keeley. The 25 year old has had an impressive season for The Drogs, who still have 8 games left of their regular season, as well as a place in the FAI Cup Quarter Final.
Keeley has less than 6 months left on his contract, which puts Notts in a strong position bargaining position, but with Drogheda still in both competitions, they may feel their success this season is worth more than any fee they could recoup for their defender. However, recruiting from the Irish league can often prove fruitful, especially as they are in the thralls of their league season, so match fitness will not be an issue.
Keeley stands at 6’5”, so would add some much needed height to the backline. He’s also a stats leader in several departments; no defender has won more aerial duels than Keeley in the whole league. He’s also made the 2nd most blocks, 4th most interceptions; in short, when it comes to the defensive side of the game, he excels.
Drogheda aren’t a side who keep much of the ball, so his possession stats are slightly skewed. However, he has shown ability on the ball, and is a progressive passer, so he has the tools to play in our backline. But he would take time to get up to speed for our style, as has Olly Tipton.
It remains to be seen if Notts will launch a third bid for Keeley’s services. He has several characteristics Notts look for in a defender, and his contract situation also presents a good opportunity. However, with Drogheda also nearing a takeover by the same owners as Walsall, there is considerable feeling that he may join the West Midlands outfit instead. Either way, it’s the first of potentially many transfer links as we head towards the deadline.