By:
Mark Hendry
Michael Noonan has been the subject of a new transfer bid from Hoffenheim this winter window.
The 17-year-old from County Kildare has emerged as a target for the German club.
They hope to add the young talent to their squad before the January window closes on Saturday night.
All offers so far have been turfed out by Shamrock Rovers as they wait for a higher price.
But it is now being reported by Irish Examiner that Die Kraichgauer have put together a new package.
And it’s claimed that it is a number far closer to what the Hoops have been looking for.
That means Shamrock are now considering the fresh approach as they weigh up a sale.
A significant sell-on as well as other bonuses would be part of any agreement, too.
Hoffenheim get closer to Shamrock Rovers’ Michael Noonan valuation with bid
Noonan’s contract expires with Shamrock at the end of the season and that puts them in a bind.
They know to land the maximum amount of money for their starlet, they would have to sell now.
That is why the club are considering their options and hanging on for other bids.
Hoffenheim, meanwhile, have a Republic of Ireland contingent within their youth ranks already.
Matt Moore and Finn Sherlock are in their II squad so the club are no strangers to the market.
Due to Brexit rules, Noonan would be unable to move to any UK club at this moment.
That would rule out immediate switches to interested clubs such as Manchester United or Chelsea.
Celtic also want Noonan but until he turns 18 he would have to remain at the Tallaght Stadium.
Hoffenheim, however, would be able to take him immediately but it remains to be seen whether that will be his avenue of choice.
Noonan has been told by his club they will not stand in his way if a move comes for him.
All clubs interested in Noonan in January window
They have even helped facilitate his potential exit by allowing him to visit potential new clubs.
He was in attendance at Celtic Park for the recent clash with rivals Rangers in Glasgow.
Celts have an advantage in Noonan’s chase based on their shareholders.
But the playmaker also missed recent friendlies with the club to consider his next options.
Noonan hit nine goals in all competitions last season for the club who won the league and cup double.
He also became the youngest goal scorer in Europa Conference League history with his strike against Molde.
He has represented Republic of Ireland at every youth level from the under-15s all the way to the 21s.
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