Teenage starlet Naj Razi completes Como move from Shamrock Rovers
Naj Razi of Shamrock Rovers in action against Darragh Noone of Drogheda.
Shamrock Rovers are to receive an upfront fee of €450,000 from Naj Razi's now-completed move to Italian club Como, with a figure double that on offer from add-ons.
The talented attacker aroused interest from Europe’s top clubs, including Real Madrid, even before he broke into Stephen Bradley’s team last season. Razi made six appearances for the champions.
Several English Premier League clubs were also hovering, especially Arsenal, but Brexit rules close off that well-trodden route until he turns 18 in October.
Upon completing his move to the Serie B outfit, Razi inked a heartfelt goodbye message to all at Rovers.
"Dear Shamrock Rovers, it’s hard to believe that my journey with the club began way back when I was just a 5-year-old," Razi wrote on his Instagram page. "I felt compelled to take a moment and express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who has been a part of my footballing journey.
"The guidance from our dedicated coaches have not only honed my abilities on the field but have also instilled valuable life lessons that I will carry with me forever.
"Shamrock Rovers has been more than just a football club – it’s been a second home. Thanks everyone for all the support.
He continued: "As I take the next step in my footballing career, I am excited to announce that I have officially signed with a new club. While this marks the beginning of a new adventure, I want to say that Shamrock Rovers will always hold a special place in my heart.
"The foundation you’ve provided and the friendships forged will undoubtedly shape my path moving forward.
"Thank you, Shamrock Rovers, for being more than just a club; you’ve been a family. I look forward to carrying the spirit of Shamrock Rovers with me as I embark on this exciting new phase of my career."
Como 1907 intensified their pursuit before Christmas to land one of Ireland’s stars at last year’s U17 Euros on a long-term contract.
Their profile has skyrocketed since the club was purchased in 2019 by Indonesian company Djarum Group led by billionaires Michael Hartono and Robert Budi Hartono, appointing former Chelsea captain Dennis Wise as chief executive president.
Como 1907 is excited to announce the signing of @naj_razi__ from Shamrock Rovers until the end of the 25/26 season. The Ireland Youth International made his first team and UEFA Conference League debut last Summer.
— Como1907 (@Como_1907) February 1, 2024
The midfielder also played an important role with the Irish U17… pic.twitter.com/YjPDoJ1SWN
Ex-Arsenal players Thierry Henry and Cesc Fàbregas have become shareholders, with the latter involved in team affairs. They are currently fourth in Serie B, six points off leaders Parma. Sligo native Liam Kerrigan, recruited 18 months ago from UCD, was recently loaned to Novara FC.
Razi was last week tipped by experienced teammate Richie Towell to have a significant role in the Rovers hunt for a fifth successive title but the reigning FAI U17 Player of the Year was eager to move abroad to test himself.
His contract was brokered by the London-based CAA Base Agency, whose stable includes James Maddison, Kingsley Conan and Heung-min Son.
Colleagues of his from the Euros squad in Hungary have chosen the European circuit too.
His Rovers teammate Ike Orazi joined Stade Reims, Cork City’s Matthew Moore opted for Hoffenheim while vice-captain Danny McGrath moved from Bohemians to Lommel, the Belgian club part of the City Group portfolio.
Others are happy to wait and continue their trade in the national league.
Waterford’s Romeo Akachukwu has a fleet of clubs, led by Southampton, keen for his signature while Mason Melia, still only 16, is prepared to operate in a thriving St Patrick’s Athletic side until ready to spread his wings.
The striker last year spent a week training with Manchester City, returning home with a signed Erling Haaland shirt presented by the man himself.
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