Dundalk have confirmed the capture of the highly-rated former Bohemians defender Darragh Leahy ahead of the new 2020 season.
Leahy has been one of the standout players for the Gypsies over the last two seasons where he played primarily as a left-back but he has also proved himself to be a more-than-capable centre-half.
The 21-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Irish champions and expressed pride over his move to Oriel Park as well as his gratitude for the two years spent with Bohemians.
"It's a very proud moment for me to sign for Dundalk," said Leahy.
"I am delighted to get things done and it was good to get everything over the line. I just can't wait to get started and looking forward to being here.
"I had a great two years at Bohemians, I enjoyed it very much and I will always be grateful to the coaching staff for giving me the opportunity to play in the league here."
Leahy has been an Ireland underage international from U17 right up to the current U21 squad.
He has nailed down the left-back slot under manager Stephen Kenny, featuring prominently in the superb campaign to date which sees them top of their qualifying group for the UEFA European Championships.
Leahy spent time as a youth with St. Kevin’s Boys and Malahide United before moving to Coventry City.
He returned home at the end of 2016 to join Bohemians under manager Keith Long.
Leahy told dundalkfc.com that he believes the move to the Lilywhites comes at the right time for him as a player and that he is intent on challenging for trophies in the 2020 season and beyond.
"I feel the time is right for a new challenge for me," added Leahy.
"The club have been so successful over the last few years and that was a major attraction for me. The plans for the club going forward really excite me.
"I just want to keep winning here. I want to win trophies. We have a big year ahead of us and the Champions League to look forward to. It's going to an exciting year and I am looking forward to competing.
"I want to win and I can't wait to get started. I am looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead."
Dundalk assistant head coach Ruaidhri Higgins has expressed his delight at bringing Leahy to Oriel Park while also reflecting on the winter so far.
"Darragh is a fantastic addition to the group not only with his footballing ability but also fits the culture at our club with his character and professionalism," said Higgins.
"He brings a real hunger and freshness to the group which is important.
"For such a young player, he has good experience through his few seasons at Bohemians where they played a huge part in his development and he will continue to develop with us.
"He has been excellent in his games for Ireland U-21’s also. Darragh has all the physical and technical attributes to be a brilliant player for this club and he has a huge career ahead of him if he keeps developing and working hard.
"That brings our new faces to three and we feel that they bring real quality and freshness to the group.
"We are in a really strong position with our squad and we will continue to work hard in the market but we will only add again if we feel the player improves the squad and has the right character."
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