Peter Hutton will join Cliftonville's push for the Premiership title

Peter Hutton has started the exodus from Derry City after the veteran defender signed for Cliftonville until the end of the Irish League season.

The 36-year-old has joined the title-chasing Reds after turning down the option of staying at the Brandywell.

Meawnhile, Derry trio Gareth McGlynn, Ruaidhri Higgins and Steven Gray are set to sign for Bohemians.

City's players were made free agents at the end of their season after the financial crisis at the club.

The Candystripes were expelled from the League of Ireland by the FAI but are expected to play in the First Division next term.

McGlynn has agreed personal terms with the Premier Division champions while fellow midfielder Higgins and defender Gray are expected to follow suit.

The trio are set to undergo medicals at Dalymount Park later this week.

Hutton, who had a brief spell in the Irish League with Portadown in 1998, has an option in his contract to extend his stay at Solitude.

"We are delighted to sign such an experienced player at such a vital stage of the season," said Cliftonville chairman Gerard Lawlor.

The north Belfast side are three points behind leaders Crusaders but have two games in hand.

Hutton will be available to make his Cliftonville debut in the Carling Premiership game at Ballymena United on 2 January.

Last month Stephen Kenny agreed to stay on as Derry manager.

Kenny has already brought in four new players - brothers Shane and Patrick McEleney, Northern Ireland U21 striker James McClean and Davy McDaid.

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