Northern Ireland striker Dale Taylor has joined League One side Blackpool from Nottingham Forest on a four-year deal - plus an option for a further 12 months.
The former Linfield player, who joins the Tangerines for an undisclosed fee, never played a first team game in his five years at the City Ground, however he did enjoy successful loan spells at Burton Albion, Wycombe Wanders and last season with Wigan Athletic.
“I’m absolutely delighted and excited to be here as it has been a long time in the making,” Taylor told the Blackpool website.
“I have spoken to the manager (Steve Bruce) quite a bit and where he wants to take this club is very exciting for me and a real inspiration behind the decision to join this massive club.”
Former Manchester United defender and current Blackpool boss Bruce said: “Dale has shown his qualities at this level over the last few years, and we are delighted he has chosen to join us here at Blackpool for the foreseeable future.
“He is a real menace for opposition defenders and knows where the back of the net is. We are hopeful he can continue his upward trajectory here at Bloomfield Road.”
Following his departure from Nottingham Forest, their Head of Football Development and Talent Management, Craig Mulholland, said: “We are delighted to see Dale get such a positive move.
“His development journey at Forest has been strong and it is credit to Dale and all of the excellent staff who have worked with him along the way.
“We have agreed a deal which is great for Dale, Blackpool and also provides us with a positive return on the investment the club has made over many years.
“We wish Dale well, and we will of course keep a close eye on his progress. He will always be welcome back at the City Ground.”
The 21-year-old, who made his debut for Linfield aged just 15 years and 273 days, was given his senior international bow by former manager Ian Baraclough in a 1-0 victory over Lithuania in Belfast back in November 2021. The striker now has nine full caps to his name.
