New Saints complete £60,000 deal for Dunfermline forward Declan McManus
The New Saints have signed the forward Declan McManus from Dunfermline Athletic for £60,000, breaking their club transfer record.
The 26-year-old, a Scottish youth international with 12 caps, moves to Park Hall from the Scottish Championship for a fee that eclipses the fee the Saints paid for Adam Roscrow in January.
He becomes the second signing of the summer after the Oswestry side snapped up Danny Davies from their Cymru Premier rivals Connah’s Quay.
McManus could make his competitive debut when TNS begin their UEFA Europa Conference League campaign next month. They find out their opponents in tomorrow’s draw.
Embed from Getty ImagesCommenting on his move, McManus said: “I’m delighted to be here and really looking forward to the big challenges ahead, both personally and collectively, in Europe and also trying to get the club back to the top of the JD Cymru Premier.”
“I came here too with the hope of winning trophies, and helping the club progress on the European stage, and hopefully I can score the goals that can help the club and the team achieve that.
“Once the clubs had agreed a fee, and I had the opportunity to speak with the head coach and chairman, it very quickly became an easy decision for me to sign.
“Their ambition was really impressive and matches my own. I know the club has a great history and I’m looking forward to helping add to that during my time here.”
McManus new club boss Anthony Limbrick added: “We’ve been watching Declan for a while now and are delighted to finally get the deal over the line.
“We really think he’ll strengthen our forward line, and give us different options at the top of the pitch. More importantly though, he’s a good character who will work hard for the team.”
Reports from Scotland had emerged on Friday of a deal being agreed and talks have proven successful with McManus putting pen-to-paper on a deal with the Saints.
