Victor Ozhianvuna
Image credit: Getty Images
Shamrock Rovers’ teenage star Victor Ozhianvuna is on the brink of making history as the most expensive export from the League of Ireland, with Arsenal agreeing a pre-contract deal worth at least €2 million.
The 16-year-old midfielder, who was born and raised in Tallaght, will remain with Rovers until January 2027 when he turns 18, before making the switch to the Premier League on a four-and-a-half-year contract.
According toIrish Independent Sport, the agreement surpasses the previous League of Ireland record fee of £1.6 million, set when Tottenham Hotspur signed Mason Melia from St Patrick’s Athletic.
READ MORE: Ian Wright names key matches Arsenal must win to secure Premier League title this season
Arsenal’s investment highlights their growing interest in the Irish market and commitment to developing young talent. The move, in advanced talks for several months, is expected to be finalised in the coming days, with Ozhianvuna having already undergone his medical with the Gunners.
A right-footed midfielder renowned for his versatility, agility and composure in tight spaces, Ozhianvuna has quickly become a standout in the League of Ireland Premier Division.
Victor Ozhianvuna
Victor Ozhianvuna (Image credit: Getty Images)
Since making his senior debut in February 2025, he has featured in 12 first-team games, including a memorable goal in Rovers’ 4-0 FAI Cup win over Wexford FC. His ability to operate as a number 10, winger, or wide playmaker has already drawn comparisons to some of Europe’s brightest prospects.
Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley hailed the teenager’s ability, saying: “He’s a really special talent. There are so many layers to him; he can play inside, he can be the 10, he can play off the right, off the front-man. Teams have watched Victor since he was 12 years old, and everyone knows him.”
Bradley confirmed that negotiations with Arsenal had been driven by the strong working relationship between Rovers’ sporting director Stephen McPhail, Arsenal technical director James Ellis and academy chief Per Mertesacker.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
The pre-contract arrangement will allow Ozhianvuna to continue his development in Dublin until he is eligible to join Arsenal under post-Brexit regulations, which prevent under-18s from moving to UK clubs. The deal ensures Rovers retain their brightest prospect for another 18 months while securing a record financial boost to invest in their youth programme.
For Arsenal, the move aligns with their long-term strategy of blending established Premier League signings with emerging talent. The Gunners have already added seven players this summer, including the marquee arrival of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace, but their capture of Ozhianvuna demonstrates a continued emphasis on future stars.
The deal not only cements Arsenal’s foothold in the Irish market but also marks a landmark moment for Shamrock Rovers, who stand to benefit both financially and reputationally from their latest academy success story.
NEXT ARTICLE: Alex Iwobi admits attempt to convince Arsenal star to join Fulham