James Abankwah completes move to Udinese - but will stay in Ireland until after exams

The centre-back signed his first professional contract last July and made his league debut at home to Derry the same week.

James Abankwah has signed for Udinese

Serie A side Udinese have snared St Patrick's Athletic defender James Abankwah on a deal potentially worth €800,000 to the FAI Cup winners.

The 18-year-old has been in Italy over the past few days to complete the deal but will remain with St Pat's on loan until July while also completing his Leaving Certificate.