Dundalk FC's Animasahun could add to high-profile departures

Mayowa Animasahun could be the latest high-profile departure from Dundalk FC, with Louth rivals Drogheda United readying themselves to make a move for the 21-year-old.

Despite relegation to the SSE Airtricity League First Division, the out-of-contract defender had his best run at Dundalk since debuting for the club in 2021 – totalling 21 appearances in 2024, from which he was named in the starting line-up 18 times.

In a recent interview with The Democrat, Animasahun didn’t wish to get drawn into conversations about his own future, with the ex-Glenmuir United schoolboy now attracting the interest of recently-crowned Sports Direct FAI Cup winners Drogheda.

Animasahun’s potential departure would follow that of Ryan O’Kane and John Mountney – who have completed their respective moves to Shelbourne and Bohemians.

Shels’ interest in O’Kane was flagged by The Democrat last month, with the 21-year-old, who played over 100 games for Dundalk, penning a long-term deal at Tolka Park.

Dundalk could receive up to €35,000 in compensation for O’Kane as he is under the age of 23; a similar entitlement could be claimed should Animasahun transfer to Drogheda.

Meanwhile, after spending all but one of the past 13 seasons at Oriel Park, former club captain Mountney has also said his goodbyes and joined Bohs on a multi-year contract.

He stated: “I want to say goodbye to a magnificent club, Dundalk FC and its devoted fans who have always supported me throughout my career at the club. It has been a very difficult decision for me to leave, but I feel this is my time.

“I take with me unforgettable and wonderful memories and will always cherish the time I had at Dundalk FC. It has been a pleasure and honour to play for this club and to have been involved in such great teams during the 12 seasons, and have no doubt in my mind that Dundalk FC will find its way up again in the future.

“The heart of the club is its fans, and I’ll always be grateful for the continuous support. Even in the club’s darkest days, you were a beacon of hope. Wishing the club all the best for the future.”

Mountney could be joined at Bohs by Jamie Gullan, but the Scottish forward, contracted to Dundalk for 2025, has attracted further interest from within the League of Ireland.

In addition, Koen Oostenbrink has been added to the PFAI Transfer List – where he joins Animasahun, Robbie Benson, Dara Keane, Paul Doyle and Dan Pike.

Eoin Kenny has been linked with a move to Blackburn Rovers in the English media, while recent Republic of Ireland U21 cap Jad Hakiki is being monitored by Sligo Rovers.

Kenny, who scored three goals in 30 appearances for The Lilywhites in 2024, is currently on trial at Ewood Park, where the 18-year-old is aiming to win a contract in January.