Nigel Clough ‘absolutely thrilled’ in demand David McGoldrick chose Mansfield Town over other clubs

Stags’ newest addition was an ‘in demand’ transfer target before his decision to join the ranks at the One Call Stadium.

Clough has expressed how pleased he is with the signing of McGoldrick, who arrives with a wealth of League One and Championship experience.

“We’re absolutely thrilled he’s decided to join us,” the manager said during his first pre-season press conference. “We had to be patient. I met him early on, Stephen Quinn was the contact really, he’s a good friend of his.

"We met him early on after the end of the season and he said ‘I’ve never had so many offers’. I think that just shows what’s out there. It shows his quality and that even at his age, he’s very much in demand.

“But also in the nature of the market, there’s not too many strikers out there and certainly not of his quality. We’ve always admired him, we have tried to get him in the past but we managed to get him this time and we’re delighted.

“We don’t see any reason why he won’t sustain the physical output that he's put in over the last couple of seasons. Physically he’s in great shape, so we're looking forward to working with him.”

McGoldrick scored 15 League One goals for Barnsley last season, including one against Stags during their 2-2 draw in March.

Mansfield Town made it their priority to bolster their attacking options over the summer transfer window. Clough has also confirmed the club are still on the market for new additions to the team, including another potential new striker.

Recent reports have linked Stags with Preston North End forward Michael Smith.

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