Taelor O’Kane, one of the rising stars of the non-league game, is attracting significant attention. The talented AFC Fylde midfielder has reportedly been the subject of a substantial six-figure bid, with league clubs showing keen interest.
It is understood that Portsmouth (Pompey) are well aware of the 19-year-old, thanks to their extensive scouting network focused on top young talent. O’Kane signed a new two-year contract with the National League side in July, amid increasing interest in the versatile midfielder.
Peterborough United and Stockport County have also been linked with O’Kane, who is the son of former Manchester United and Everton defender John O’Kane.
AFC Fylde made the decision to disclose that they had received a substantial bid for Taelor O’Kane, which they opted to reject. Fylde’s director of football, Alex Hughes, commented: “We are pleased to see clubs in higher divisions taking note of our club’s successes. Taelor has undoubted potential, and we believe he will soon be a regular member of the first team and has a great future ahead of him. He remains central to our future plans, and the decision to reject the bid by the chairman was made without hesitation.”
Portsmouth (Pompey) have been monitoring O’Kane for some time, following his senior debut a year ago, where he quickly made an impression. Blues manager John Mousinho is believed to have personally scouted O’Kane, alongside the club’s scouting operations in the north of England.
While there’s no indication that Pompey are looking to act on their interest imminently, the club has shown a willingness to recruit from outside the EFL, as evidenced by the signing of Reuben Swann from Southern League side AFC Sudbury this summer. The Blues have also ventured overseas for young talent, bringing in players with the potential to develop at Fratton Park. For instance, Terry Devlin joined from Glentoran last year, and the 20-year-old Northern Ireland under-21 international made 25 appearances in his first season. This summer, he was joined by Australian left-back Jacob Farrell, who signed a four-year deal from Central Coast Mariners.
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