Thomas Stewart previously played for Wolverhampton Wanderers

Thomas Stewart has joined Eircom League side Derry City after turning down a new contract offer from Linfield.

The striker was understood to be in talks with a number of English clubs regarding trials but has decided to move to the Brandywell.

Candystripes boss Stephen Kenny had expressed an interest in Stewart and had money to spend following the sale of Pat McCourt to West Bromwich Albion.

Stewart joined Linfield in 2006 and was on a full-time contract with the Blues.

His first-team starting opportunities were limited because of the form of Glenn Ferguson and Peter Thompson, and he was also played out of position on occasions.

Stewart, a Northern Ireland U21 international, previously played for Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Linfield manager David Jeffrey faces a poser for his side's Champions League qualifier in July as Ferguson will be on holiday, leaving Thompson as the club's only fit, available forward.

The Blues have also lost Mark Dickson to Crusaders and Tim Mouncey to Portadown while transfer-listed Tim McCann and Pat McShane joined Glenavon and Lisburn Distillery respectively.

Goalkeeper Stuart Addis, defender Jonny Harkness and midfielder Conor Hagan have arrived at Windsor Park in the close season.