YORK City have agreed a deal with Irish Premiership club Crusaders for centre-back Josh Robinson – but manager Jackie McNamara's summer shopping will not stop there.

The Minstermen are hoping to wrap up a further two deals this week to underline their determination to make an immediate return to the Football League.

Robinson, a former Northern Ireland under-21 international, is still finalising personal terms at Bootham Crescent but a package has been agreed with Crusaders in lieu of the international transfer.

Now 22, Robinson has spent the last four seasons at Crusaders after leaving Scottish giants Rangers. He has played in both the Europa and the Champions League for the north Belfast side and won back-to-back league titles.

Out of contract this summer, however, Robinson had made no secret of his desire to return to full-time football and spent a short period on trial at Fleetwood Town.

He said: "Playing first-team football at Crusaders has made me a better player. I've played in a few positions and centre-half is my preferred role.

"I love the Irish League and it has given me great experience. Hopefully that will benefit me, especially on the physical aspect of the game.

"My head tells me that I have to make it across the water (in England). I am grateful to Crusaders for letting it happen and it's up to me to grab the chance with both hands."

News of Robinson's imminent arrival at York was released by the Irish outfit, who issued a statement saying: "Josh leaves Crusaders with the best wishes of the entire club and it is hoped he can fulfil his ambitions in full-time football."

During his four years in Belfast, Robinson made 124 appearances for Crusaders and scored nine goals.

He is the nephew of former Linfield goalkeeper George Dunlop, who was a member of Northern Ireland's 1982 World Cup squad. Significantly, he has snubbed interest from Linfield in favour of a move to England.

If talks are successful over the next 48 hours, Robinson will become the Minstermen's ninth new signing of the summer.

Manager McNamara has already secured the services of Ben Clappison, Jack Higgins, Richard Brodie, Nick Kennedy, Tyler Walton, Alex Whittle, Shaun Rooney and Ben Barber.