A host of top French and Italian clubs, along with sides in the Premier League and Championship, are keeping tabs on Dundalk teenager Vinnie Leonard.
The 17-year-old became the Oriel Park club’s youngest ever league goalscorer earlier this season when he netted against Athlone Town.
Genoa are one of the Serie A sides to take an interest in the Ireland underage international, while Ligue 1 sides Lyon and Lille are also monitoring Leonard.
The youngster signed his first professional deal with Dundalk ahead of this season and quickly established himself in Ciaran Kilduff’s side.
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He said after signing the contract: “It’s something I always wanted to work towards, ever since I joined when I was 14. The contract was obviously the end goal.
“I’m just happy to make my first pro contract, and get my debut in the last few months as well. It was what I was working towards and I achieved it, so I’m happy with that.
“I’m very happy. I’ve gone from Under-14s to Under-20s in the space of three years, and senior as well, so it has been going well.”
On Friday night he made his 15th appearance of the campaign against, as the Lillywhites took on Kerry FC.
Leonard added to his goal against Athlone when he scored his second of the campaign in the 1-1 draw with Finn Harps.
His senior debut came in Dundalk’s final home game last season against Shamrock Rovers.
Leonard will get the chance to impress again in November when Ireland’s Under-17s compete in the World Cup in Qatar.
He featured in the 5-0 win over Iceland that secured Ireland’s first ever qualification for the World Cup at that age level.
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