Carlisle United seal loan move for Chris Conn-Clarke

The attacking midfielder has joined the Blues on loan initially until the end of January.

Conn-Clarke, 23, has been linked with the Cumbrians for several weeks.

And now the ex-Altrincham star links up with Mark Hughes' National League squad.

Head coach Hughes had previously said that players would have to leave the Carlisle squad before they made any more signings.

But Conn-Clarke's arrival has now been confirmed after discussions with the player's League One parent club.

Head coach Hughes, speaking on the club website, said: “He’s a player with real quality in the final third — composed, creative, and clinical when it counts.

"He brings with him a proven track record at this level, and his experience, along with his technical ability, makes him a valuable addition to the squad.

"We’re confident that his presence will make a significant impact, not just in terms of goals and assists, but in the overall dynamics of our attacking play.”

The Blues' head of football operations Marc Tierney saluted United's owners, the Piatak family, for their backing to get the deal done.

“Both the club and Chris were fully committed to making this move happen, and thanks to the fantastic support from our owners, we were able to get the deal over the line," he said.

"We’d also like to thank Peterborough for their professionalism — they’ve been a pleasure to work with throughout the process.

"Chris is a player who really excites us. He’s got genuine quality on the ball, creativity in the final third, and a strong work ethic that will complement the team.

"He offers something a bit different, and we’re looking forward to seeing him link up with the manager, the coaching staff, and his new teammates.”

It was not initially announced whether United had permission to play Conn-Clarke in the FA Cup against Boston United this weekend, but the Blues later confirmed that the new signing can play on Saturday, subject to the deal receiving FA and National League clearance.

Peterborough chairman Darragh MacAnthony had previously appeared to be playing hard-ball over Conn-Clarke, saying he was adamant the player would not be moving until Posh's financial demands were met.

Carlisle were linked with the creative player along with fellow National League clubs York City and Forest Green Rovers, but the latter duo played down reports suggesting they were in for Conn-Clarke.

The Belfast-born player has been with Peterborough since the summer of 2024, making 30 appearances and scoring one goal.

He earned his move to London Road with a superb 2023/24 campaign with Altrincham in the National League, Conn-Clarke scoring 22 goals in 47 outings that term.

He was named National League player of the season and played along current Blues top scorer Regan Linney at Altrincham.

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