Former Letterkenny Rovers youth player James Abankwah has signed for Italian giants Udinese in Serie A for an alleged record upfront figure for a League of Ireland player.
The centre back joins Udinese from St.Patrick’s Athletic, but will be loaned back to the Inchicore club until the summer as he completes his Leaving Cert.
James played for the club at a young age back in 2011 under coaches Michael Boyle and Brian Gallagher during his time living in the town
With Gavin Bazunu joining Manchester City from Shamrock Rovers for €500,000, the fee for Abankwah is rumoured to be more than that.
Abankwah said: “I’m feeling very happy right now and I’m lost for words, I’d like to thank St Pat’s, Cherry Orchard, Melview FC and Letterkenny Rovers. I’m looking forward to getting going and still have a big six months at St Pat’s and my Leaving Cert.”
James, a ROI U19 International, will remain on loan with St Patrick’s Athletic until July, allowing him to complete his Leaving Cert, before joining Udinese in time for the 2022-23 season.
James played for Letterkenny Rovers at a young age back in 2011 under coaches Michael Boyle and Brian Gallagher during his time living in the town.
“We wish James the best of luck in his future career,” said a Rovers spokesman.
