Portadown reject Linfield offer for Chris Casement

The 28 year old, who spent two years at Windsor Park before being snapped up by Ronnie McFall, has emerged at the top of the Blues’ January transfer window shopping list.

They have had an initial offer for the versatile Casement rejected, but the Belfast side could well up the ante.

Casement, who has 18 Northern Ireland Under-21 international caps, returned to the Irish League with the Blues in 2010 following a colourful career on the full time circuit, that included spells with Ipswich Town and Dundee.

He also spent time at Millwall, Hamilton Accies and Wycombe Wanderers on a loan basis.

Former Blues boss David Jeffrey beat off a number of clubs for Casement’s signature, but in his two years at the club, he struggled to nail down a permanent first team shirt and, after 47 appearances, he moved to Portadown -- agreeing a three year deal on May 8, 2012.

It is understood, the Blues are keen to return to the negotiating table in a bid to thrash a deal which will enable Casement’s Windsor Park return.

Meanwhile, Linfield’s Danske Premiership game against Dungannon Swifts, which was postponed at the weekend, will be be played at Windsor Park on Tuesday, February 2.