Shamrock Rovers agree 'landmark transfer' with Arsenal for Victor Ozhianvuna
LANDMARK MOVE: Shamrock Rovers confirm they have agreed a "landmark transfer in Irish football" with Arsenal which will see talented youngster Victor Ozhianvuna join the Gunners in January 2027. Pic: Arsenal FC.
Shamrock Rovers confirm they have agreed a "landmark transfer in Irish football" with Arsenal which will see talented youngster Victor Ozhianvuna join the Gunners in January 2027 for a fee believed to be in the region of €2million.
Ozhianvuna, who turns 17 in January, began his playing days with Firhouse United before joining the Hoops at the age of six.
He made his debut for the Rovers first team against arch-rivals Bohemians in the opening league game of this season, in which they are on the brink of reclaiming the league title, at the Aviva Stadium while he also made his European debut when he was introduced as a substitute in the home leg of the UEFA Conference League Play-off game against Molde.
"This is a landmark transfer in Irish football and a template for the development of top young football talent in the country," Rovers said in a statement released on their official website.
"The club is delighted that Victor will remain with Shamrock Rovers until the age of 18 and then make the move to north London in January 2027.
"Victor (16) has been with Shamrock Rovers since the age of 6. He has grown up within the club's Academy and this transfer is a tremendous reflection on the player and all the coaches who have assisted his development.
Establishing SRFC Academy was a pioneering move made by the club's Board following learnings made post the UEFA Europa League Group Stage qualification in 2011.
"The facility at Roadstone Group Sports Club in Dublin 22 was identified as the ideal location being just 5km from Tallaght Stadium.
"Identification of the site and working in partnership with Roadstone, the facility was turned into Ireland's first professional football Academy facility. It is now home to all of our teams from development years to the first team.
"All of this would not be possible without the commitment, talent and dedication of the many coaches who has passed through the Academy and those who are currently on its staff.
"The club continues to invest in young talent and the facility in Roadstone and is delighted that Victor has made such progress with determination, talent and hard work."
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