News

03/12/2008 - Martinez denies mcginn bid

Roberto Martinez has denied making a £125,000 bid for Northern Ireland international Niall McGinn.The Derry City midfielder was a guest of Swansea City at Sunday's 2-2 draw with Cardiff City at the Liberty Stadium.

Following the derby clash, internet rumours suggested Ireland's rising star had been the subject of a £125,000 bid from front-runners Swansea amid interest from Scottish giants Glasgow Celtic.

But Martinez played down the rumours, stating: "I have had conversations about three players - one in Spain and two over here, but that is it.

"Whenever we make a signing we will let our fans know.

"We have not made a bid for him (McGinn)."

McGinn's stock is rising considerably after being named the The Professional Footballers' Association of Ireland's Young player of the year and making his international debut last month.

Celtic have apparently shown interest by taking the 21-year-old on trial, but McGinn is believed to want assurance of a first-team spot before agreeing a move in the January transfer window.

"Celtic are obviously a big club and it is a great honour to discover that they are looking at me. It would be a great move," said McGinn.

"I was a Manchester United fan as a boy but Celtic were my Scottish team, so it is obviously something I would consider.

"There are a few clubs in for me, so I will have a look at my options."

Derry have refused to comment on McGinn's future, but did reveal they had received a bid from an unnamed Championship club.

Chris Barney