Drogheda United beat off ‘a lot of interest’ to sign Dundalk teenager

Premier Division Drogheda United have landed the signing of in-demand defender Emmanuel Adegboyega from Dundalk.

Adegboyega, 19, was reported to have attracted interest from West Ham, Crystal Palace and Norwich City before joining the Boynesiders.

He previously played for Drogheda in 2021 at Under-19 level and spent the 2022 season at Dundalk, featuring for the Lilywhites Under-19 side throughout the season.

And Drogs boss Kevin Doherty said: “It’s great to have him back.

“There’s been a lot of interest in him. He’s been excellent for Dundalk and I know they were very keen to keep him at the club so it’s a great signing for us.

“I've known Manny for a few years. He was in with us (in first team training) a good few times and was more of a midfielder then, he’s much more a centre half now.

“It’s something we’ve been looking to do, bringing in another centre half, and I think he’s one of the most exciting young players in the country.

“In the game against Pats at the weekend, Ben Curtis and Conor Keeley were excellent but that’s just two centre halves, we’ve three now and I’m hoping to add another one.”

The defender becomes Drogheda’s sixth new signing of the season – joining Sean Brennan, Aaron McNally, Michael Leddy (loan from Shamrock Rovers), Ben Curtis and Conor Keeley.

Adegboyega added: “It’s good to be back at Drogheda. There’s a few faces around the squad I’d still recognise too. I’ve converted to a centre half now.

“I’d say I’m fast, tall and strong, what you need in a centre half.

“Personally, the aim is to get as many minutes as possible and play well. For the team, it’s to compete and stay in the division.”