David McGoldrick has turned down a new deal at Notts County and is set to join MK Dons, sources have revealed to the Real EFL.
The veteran striker is ready to leave Meadow Lane despite a standout season, with promotion rivals poised to snap him up.
MK Dons Set To Land McGoldrick After Notts Exit Decision
The 37-year-old was offered new terms after a brilliant season in which he netted 17 league goals and made the League Two Team of the Season, but has opted to walk away, with MK Dons now favourites to secure his signature.
Sources close to the situation have confirmed to The Real EFL that McGoldrick has communicated his intention not to accept the offer tabled by Notts. While some fans hoped the delay in his decision was linked to the club’s managerial vacancy, insiders suggest the deciding factor is financial, with the Magpies unable to match the striker’s current salary.
This will come as a bitter blow for supporters, many of whom recall McGoldrick’s return in 2023 as a symbol of loyalty and ambition. Having turned down a contract from League One side Derby County at the time, his decision to rejoin Notts County was hailed as a coup. That sentiment may now be tested as he edges closer to a move to MK Dons, reportedly offering more lucrative terms.
Chance to Reunite With Warne
It is believed that a chance to reunite with former boss Paul Warne and close friend Nathaniel Mendez-Laing, both now at Stadium MK, is a driving force behind his intention to move. Unconfirmed reports suggest the package offered by Notts County may have reflected his age (37) rather than last season’s contribution.
The striker’s influence at Notts cannot be understated. Over the past two seasons, he’s notched 30 goals in 76 league appearances and claimed all three of the club’s 2024/25 end-of-season awards. He also missed the crucial second leg of the play-off semi-final against AFC Wimbledon through injury—a factor many saw as pivotal in the Magpies’ narrow defeat. That injury, and the risk of further injury, could be a factor in Notts’ offer.
McGoldrick’s pending departure is a seismic moment for the club, who also parted ways with head coach Stuart Maynard following their failed promotion bid. With a new manager still to be appointed, Notts now face the challenge of replacing their talisman ahead of another promotion push.
Writer’s View
McGoldrick’s choice to turn down Notts and join a rival will sting. It’s not just the goals—it’s the symbolism of a local lad returning home. If it’s purely a money move, some fans will understandably feel betrayed. But with his old manager Paul Warne at MK Dons, and a potential promotion-winning side being assembled there, the logic is clear.
Didzy has delivered for Notts, but he may believe this is his last shot at silverware—and the Dons look like a serious threat for 2025/26.
