Stoke City want to turn Stephen Ireland’s loan deal from Aston Villa into a permanent move during the current transfer window.  Boss Mark Hughes said, “We are trying to do something with Stephen if we can. I do think there is a willingness on both sides to get something done but nothing has been agreed formally yet.”. . .

SHAY Given has extended his loan spell at Middlesbrough until the end of February but could still be sold in the current transfer window by parent club Aston Villa.   Given may also return to the Ireland squad for the March friendly against Serbia after Sunderland’s Keiron Westwood was ruled out for the rest of the season with a shoulder injury . . . 

GARY O’Neill, currently recovering from testicular cancer surgery, has signed a new deal to remain on with Drogheda United in a player-coaching role for the new season. The club has also signed defender Paul Andrews from Shelbourne . . .  

IRISH striker Roy O’Donovan looks set to quit Northampton Town for Brunei side DPMM FC which has already signed his fellow Corkman Joe Gamble . . .

ANDY Reid has signed a new two and a half year deal with Nottingham Forest after helping them dump West Ham out of the FA Cup with a 5-0 win on Sunday . . .

AIRTRICITY League champions St. Patrick’s Athletic have pulled off a major coup with the signature of Ireland midfielder Keith Fahey . . .