Matthew Burns has completed his move from Coleraine to Premier League new boys Sunderland for an undisclosed fee.
Burns, who made his Bannsiders debut aged just 15, is part of the latest group of Under-18 scholars moving into the Academy of Light's professional development programme.
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The 16-year-old has represented Northern Ireland up to Under-17 level and was part of the Irish FA’s JD National Academy Residential programme, where he was recently awarded the “Joint Graduate of the Year” award
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Now he is set to strengthen the Black Cats' links with the province as he joins Trai Hume, Daniel Ballard and Rhys Walsh at the club.
Burns moves to the Stadium of Light as a first-year scholar and will link up with Fin Lynch and Jordan Moore’s Under-18 side ahead of the 2025-26 season.
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Coleraine wished the teenager well after completing his move across the water saying they will be "watching his journey with pride".
"Matthew has progressed through the ranks at the Coleraine Academy since the age of 13, has consistently impressed with his work ethic, technical ability, and dedication both on and off the pitch," the club said.
"His move to a prestigious club like Sunderland is a testament not only to his own commitment but also to the outstanding development environment provided by our Academy.
"We would like to place on record our sincere thanks and appreciation to all the coaches and staff at our Academy – across all age groups – who have played a crucial role in Matthew’s progression. Their time, guidance, and support have helped shape him into the player and person he is today.
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"This move underlines the strength of our youth programme and our continued commitment to developing local talent capable of stepping onto the highest levels of the game.
"We wish Matthew every success as he begins this new chapter with Sunderland and will be watching his journey with pride."
Burns' former school, Dalriada, wished their former pupil well as he begins his new adventure on Wearside.
"Former pupil Matthew Burns was given a warm welcome back to Dalriada by Principal Mrs Louise Aitcheson and football coaches Ian Getty and Paul Gaston, when he recently called in to school before continuing his remarkable journey to join Premier League team Sunderland FC,” the school posted on social media.
Matthew Burns has completed his move to Sunderland
Matthew Burns has completed his move to Sunderland
"Matthew was an extremely popular pupil at Dalriada before moving to the Irish FA JD National Academy Residential programme, based at Campbell College in Belfast.
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"Players from this Elite Programme will progress to playing for Northern Ireland youth international teams and ultimately the full NI international team.
"He leaves the programme with the title of “Joint Graduate of the Year” award. Everyone at Dalriada wishes Matthew the very best of luck for the future. Once a Dalriad - always a Dalriad!”