Arsenal have secured the signature of Irish wonderkid Victor Ozhianvuna from Shamrock Rovers in a record-breaking deal, surpassing the fee Tottenham paid for Mason Melia earlier this year.
Record-Breaking Deal for Irish Football :
Arsenal have agreed terms with Shamrock Rovers for the transfer of 16-year-old midfielder Victor Ozhianvuna, widely regarded as one of the most exciting prospects in Irish football. The deal will become official when the youngster turns 18 in January 2027, in line with EU transfer rules.
The transfer fee eclipses the £1.6 million Tottenham Hotspur paid St Patrick’s Athletic for Mason Melia, making Ozhianvuna the most expensive teenage player to move from Ireland.
Arsenal Beat European Rivals :
The agreement, first reported by The Athletic, comes after Ozhianvuna completed his medical with Arsenal. The Gunners fended off interest from several leading European clubs, underlining their commitment to investing in emerging talent.
Arsenal’s academy manager Per Mertesacker and technical director James Ellis have been leading a long-term project to expand recruitment in Ireland, forging strong ties with Shamrock Rovers. Their connections through Stephen Bradley and Stephen McPhail were key to sealing the deal.
Development Plan Until 2027 :
Due to FIFA and EU regulations, Ozhianvuna will remain at Shamrock Rovers until his 18th birthday, gaining valuable senior experience in the League of Ireland Premier Division. Arsenal trust the club’s strong youth development record to further prepare him before he transitions to London.
Manager Mikel Arteta and Arsenal’s academy coaches will monitor his progress closely, with plans to integrate him into their youth setup in 2027. The Gunners believe Ozhianvuna could become the next breakout star to emerge from Ireland into the Premier League.
Rising Star of Irish Football :
Victor Ozhianvuna has already impressed with his maturity and technical ability, earning senior appearances with Shamrock Rovers despite his age. Known for his composure in midfield, vision, and physical presence, he is seen as one of the brightest young midfielders in Irish football.
Key Highlights :
- Arsenal agree record-breaking deal for Shamrock Rovers midfielder Victor Ozhianvuna
- Transfer fee surpasses Tottenham’s record signing of Mason Melia
- Ozhianvuna will remain at Shamrock Rovers until January 2027
- Arsenal continue to expand recruitment network in Ireland
Player Profile: Victor Ozhianvuna :
- Age: 16
- Club: Shamrock Rovers (Republic of Ireland)
- Position: Central Midfielder
- Style of Play: Box-to-box, composed passer, physically strong
- Strengths: Vision, ball control, maturity beyond his years
- Transfer Status: Will join Arsenal in January 2027
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