Glentoran boss Mick McDermott has confirmed that striker Robbie McDaid has agreed terms to join derby rivals Linfield at the end of his contract later this month.
McDermott made the revelation while announcing three imminent departures from the BetMcLean Oval as part of a summer reshuffle ahead of next season.
Burundi international Gael Bigirimana and former Dundee United midfielder Dillon Powers are also parting company with the Glens this month.
Read more: Linfield boss David Healy offers update on Jimmy Callacher surgery
McDaid’s exit has been one of the Irish League’s worst kept secrets and the 25-year-old has been strongly linked with a move to the Blues since the turn of the year.
McDermott said: “Robbie has decided to move on at the expiry of his current contract and has informed us that he has agreed terms with Linfield FC.
“Robbie scored some vital goals in his five seasons here, most notably playing an integral role in our 2020 Irish Cup success and scoring the winner in the final.
“He also successfully moved with us in 2019 from part-time to full-time football and played his part in our recent journey. He has left some great memories in the hearts of our fans and we wish him the best in his future.”
Bigirimana, who joined Glentoran in 2020, made 57 appearances for the Mersey Street club, but featured only twice in the second half of last season. The 28-year-old, who played for Newcastle United, Coventry City and Hibs, is currently weighing up the next move of his career.
McDermott said: “Bigi has been a top professional during his time at Glentoran. His personality is infectious and he had a positive impact within our squad.
“Bigi is considering his options as far as Asia, the Middle East and Africa and we wish him every success in his next step.”
American Powers, who joined the Glens in March, will also bid farewell at the end of his contract after the briefest of stays in East Belfast.
“Dillon has decided to return to the United States with his family to move onto the next phase of his career,” said McDermott. “Having joined us late last season, Dillon showed his quality in the final months of the season. He is a top professional and person.”
McDaid, Bigirimana and Powers join goalkeepers Rory Brown and Ross Glendinning who both recently left Glentoran for Glenavon and Carrick Rangers respectively.
McDermott has added four new signings so far this window - striker Ally Roy, defenders Aidan Wilson and Harry Murphy and goalkeeper Mike Argyrides.
READ NEXT:
- Irish FA appoints ex-MLA Chris Lyttle to new post
- Kenny Shiels cautious over Marissa Callaghan fitness ahead of Euro finals
- Northern Ireland release official song for first-ever finals
- NI footballer using her studies to help dream of turning professional
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox.
