Blackpool linked with summer swoop for prolific Linfield and Northern Ireland striker who came through the ranks at Everton

The Belfast Telegraph are reporting the Seasiders are current favourites to land the Linfield forward, who is out of contract in the summer.

The 22-year-old has enjoyed an impressive campaign for the Northern Irish Premier League side, scoring 23 goals in just 23 games, including two hat-tricks.

The prolific striker also scored 14 goals in 19 games last season.

Lavery's form has earned him call-ups to the Northern Ireland squad, where he has featured seven times alongside Blackpool s Dan Ballard.

The 5ft 11ins forward has also represented his country from Under-17 level right up to Under-21.

Lavery joined Linfield in 2019 after a loan spell at Falkirk while at parent club Everton, where he spent four years in their academy.

Kilmarnock and Motherwell were linked with the striker but, according to reports, his previous spell in Scotland was a fairly forgettable one and the player is keen to move to England.

The Belfast Telgraph state Lavery's agent David Campbell is handling negotiations and, while Blackpool are in pole position, it is possible another offer may come in.

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