Promising playmaker Cathal O'Sullivan leaves Cork City for Preston North End

Having just turned 19 and recovering from injury, O'Sullivan is highly regarded at Turner's Cross but was eager to make the move abroad

THREATENING: Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper Ed McGinty makes a save from Cathal O'Sullivan of Cork City last season at Turner's Cross. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Cork City playmaker Cathal O'Sullivan has joined Preston North End in the Championship.

The Irish underage international joined City as a 12-year-old, having started his career with Leeside United.

O'Sullivan, who just turned 19, is out of contract with the Leesiders since last November, having made his professional debut in 2023.

He was selected in the 2024 PFAI First Division Team of the Year after a breakthrough campaign, where he hit seven goals in 28 league appearances and stood out for his movement and skill.

Cathal O'Sullivan of Republic of Ireland in action against Mohamed Khaled A Gouda of Qatar during an U21 international friendly. Picture: Gerry Scully/Sportsfile

He suffered a cruciate knee injury last summer. City reached an agreement with Preston North End in line with the FIFA Training Compensation regulations which will see them benefit if O'Sullivan's career takes off in England. 

He was previously linked with moves to Celtic and Brentford but Preston had been on the radar for quite some time. They have a strong connection with City, with Alan Browne and Seani Maguire among the players who lined out for both clubs.

BENEFIT

Cork City announced the move on social media: 'Cork City FC can confirm that Cathal O’Sullivan has joined English Championship side, Preston North End.

'O’Sullivan joined City from Leeside in January 2020, and went on to make over 50 appearances, scoring 7 times.

'The club can confirm that an agreement has been reached with Preston North End in line with the FIFA Training Compensation regulations, which will also see the club stand to benefit in the future based on Cathal’s success.

'All at the club would like to thank Cathal for his contribution to the club and wish him every success in the future.'

Cork City head to St Colman's Park on Friday night for a First Division derby with Cobh Ramblers having won their opening three fixtures as they bid to land the lower-tier title for the third time in five seasons.