Arsenal agree record deal with Shamrock Rovers for young midfielder Victor Ozhianvuna.
Record deal for Shamrock Rovers starlet
Arsenal’s summer has taken another twist with a move for 16-year-old Victor Ozhianvuna from Shamrock Rovers. As per Irish Independent, the Gunners will pay around €2m upfront. The figure will potentially rise to €4m after add-ons. That makes it the biggest sale ever for an Ireland club.
Head coach Mikel Arteta has already added new names to his first team. Now, the club is also clearly looking to invest in future stars. Ozhianvuna can’t officially join until he turns 18 in 2027 due to FIFA rules. He’ll sign a four-and-a-half-year deal at the Emirates in 2027.
The record fee shows Arsenal’s faith in his talent. Shamrock Rovers will recognize this as a moment of great pride for Irish youth football. At just 16, the teenager has entered senior football.
Who is Victor Ozhianvuna?
Born in Tallaght, Ozhianvuna has been part of Shamrock Rovers since the age of six. He made his first-team and senior debut in January before playing in Europe against Molde. He most recently scored his first professional goal in the FAI Cup.
While primarily a midfielder, he has the ability to play out wide as well. Both options give his coaches and teams flexibility, that is something coaches love. Arsenal scouts clearly believe he has the tools to follow in the footsteps of Ethan Nwaneri and Max Dowman. These two are the other rising talents in their system.
Fans won’t see him in red and white for a couple of years. But, expectations are already growing. If his development stays on the same path, Arsenal may have another gem in their hands. For now, we will have to follow his journey fairly closely.
Author’s Opinion
This deal is more than just about one player. It shows Arsenal’s intent to dominate both today and tomorrow. Ozhianvuna may be years away, but his signing feels like a statement of trust in youth.
