SEAN MAGUIRE WILL join Preston North End from Cork City at the end of July.
The League of Ireland Premier Division leaders confirmed the much-mooted deal in a statement this morning.
Maguire hit a hat-trick in a hugely-impressive 3-0 win over champions Dundalk last night at Oriel Park, putting the Leesiders 18 points clear.
“The striker has agreed a three-year deal from next month after both clubs agreed an appropriate but undisclosed compensation package,” the statement reads.
“Maguire has scored 19 goals in 20 appearances so far this campaign and will continue to be available for selection for John Caulfield’s side until his departure date at the end of July when he has completed his move.”
North End boss Simon Grayson will add the former U21 international to former League of Ireland stars Daryl Horgan and Andy Boyle.
Ireland manager Martin O’Neill and assistant Roy Keane were present at Oriel Park last night to witness Maguire’s match-winning treble.
“He has been scoring goals,” said City boss, John Caulfield, “his work rate is phenomenal and we know he’ll continue to do that in the rest of his time here.
“Whilst you never want to lose a player of Seani’s quality, we are delighted to have worked with Preston so that he can remain with us until the end of July.
“We’ve had a very strong start to the campaign, the lads have a well-deserved break now to recharge their batteries and get ready for a massive second half of the season and that’s our focus now.”
