EXCLUSIVE: Blackpool set to beat Derby County to another statement signing

Jacque Talbot

Updated: 26 Aug 2023 15:20 BST
3 min read

Ryan Longman is the subject of interest from Blackpool, Derby County, and a whole of other clubs from League One and abroad, FootballTransfers can reveal.

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The Hull City player is weighing up his options and a large number of clubs are looking at the 22-year-old for a loan deal, we are told.

We are led to believe that Blackpool are leading the race for his signature, which would be something of a double whammy for Derby, who also missed out on the signing of Jordan Rhodes to The Tangerines.

It means that Blackpool are set to make another statement signing in League One as their campaign gets underway.

We are informed that the winger is leaning towards a move to League One outfit Blackpool despite heavy interest from Derby, who compete in the same league.

Longham, who can play anywhere along the front line, either as a forward or on the flank, is one of the fastest-growing prospects at Hull. Last campaign he hugely impressed and, in the 2021/22 season, when he was operating as a wing-back, he scored an incredible four goals and provided four assists in the Championship, featuring in 35 games.

Also, during his time at Wimbledon on loan, he really impressed, too, making ten goal contributions in 44 games for the London side.

Hull City boss on Longham

Speaking ahead of Hull’s Carabao Cup match against League Two's Doncaster Rovers, Tigers boss Liam Rosenior told BBC Radio Humberside: "He is currently engaged in discussions with a team in Turkey. I believed it was the right decision to grant him the opportunity to converse with them.

Welcome to Blackpool, Jordan Rhodes!

🍊 #UTMP | @LinksSigns
— Blackpool FC (@BlackpoolFC) August 25, 2023

"He finds himself in a position where he needs assurance of playing time in his career, which I cannot guarantee here. Therefore, out of respect for Ryan, he is presently engaged in discussions."

Longman is a player who still holds significant potential and with a bright future.

Hull signed him in 2021 on an initial loan deal from Brighton before making his transfer to East Yorkshire permanent six months later. Over the course of his time at the MKM Stadium, he has amassed 73 appearances across all competitions and has contributed with seven goals.