Linfield target Portadown striker Matthew Tipton

Premiership champions Linfield are reported to have asked Portadown for permission to approach in-form Shamrock Park striker Matthew Tipton.

The Sunday Life reported that David Jeffrey had confirmed that the Blues "have submitted a letter" to Portadown.

"We have yet to meet Matthew and I am sure we are one of several clubs interested," added the Linfield boss.

Jeffrey also revealed they wanted to sign Portadwn's Ross Redman but would not be pay to meet the development fee.

Attacking defender Redman has come up through the ranks at Shamrock Park which means Portadown would be entitled to compensation.

Tipton scored a hat-trick in Portadown's 3-2 win against Cliftonville on Saturday, bringing his tally for the season up to 25.