Coventry City handed boost in race to sign Frank Lampard favourite ahead of Wrexham

Coventry City have been tipped to beat Wrexham in the race for experienced defender Seamus Coleman, with the veteran believed to be a strong fit for Frank Lampard’s side following his Everton departure.

Coleman recently brought an end to his lengthy stay at Everton, closing the curtain on a remarkable 17-year spell at Goodison Park. The Republic of Ireland international joined the club from Sligo Rovers in 2009 for a reported fee of just £60,000 and went on to establish himself as one of the Premier League’s standout bargain signings.

Having captained Everton and become a hugely respected figure on Merseyside, the 37-year-old confirmed he would continue his playing career elsewhere after deciding it was the right time to move on.

In an emotional farewell message, Coleman thanked supporters, teammates, managers and staff for their role throughout his time at the club, while also explaining his desire to take time over the summer to assess the next chapter for both himself and his family.

The experienced full-back has recently been linked with a possible move to Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney-backed Wrexham, as the Welsh side continue to attract high-profile names.

However, former teammate Shane Long believes a switch to Coventry City may make greater sense, particularly given Coleman’s previous relationship with Frank Lampard during their time together at Everton.

Lampard has spoken glowingly about Coleman in the past, once describing him as the “best man” he had ever met, and Long feels the connection between the pair could play a major role in any potential move.

Long suggested Coventry could offer the ideal next step for Coleman, though admitted the defender’s final decision may ultimately come down to how his body feels after years of battling injuries.

He pointed to the serious leg break Coleman suffered while on international duty with Ireland, along with recurring fitness setbacks in recent years, as reasons why the veteran will carefully weigh up his future.

Despite those concerns, Long believes Coleman still has plenty to offer, praising his professionalism, leadership qualities and team-first mentality. He added that any newly promoted Premier League side would benefit from having a player of his experience and character in the dressing room.

Known for his humility and commitment, Coleman remains highly regarded within football circles, with Long insisting it is difficult to find anyone with a negative word to say about the Everton icon.