MK Dons closing in on 20-year-old Irishman as Celtic-bound Matt O’Riley replacement | OneFootball

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Football League World

·20 January 2022

MK Dons closing in on 20-year-old Irishman as Celtic-bound Matt O’Riley replacement

Article image:MK Dons closing in on 20-year-old Irishman as Celtic-bound Matt O’Riley replacement

Milton Keynes Dons are closing in on the addition of young Irish starlet Dawson Devoy, according to a report from RTE.

The 20-year-old re-signed for his current League of Ireland side Bohemians last month, just hours after he picked up the Young Player of the Year award for the 2021 season after two goals and four assists in 33 domestic matches.


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But Liam Manning and the Dons have swooped for the youngster following the imminent loss of their star midfielder Matt O’Riley, who is set to sign for Scottish giants Celtic in a £1.5 million deal.

Quiz: Can you name which club MK Dons signed these 28 defenders from?

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Article image:MK Dons closing in on 20-year-old Irishman as Celtic-bound Matt O’Riley replacement

Tennai Watson?

Devoy, who also was named in the League of Ireland Team of the Year for the 2021 season, is naturally an attacking midfielder and has amassed four caps for the Republic of Ireland’s under-21’s side.

And the Dons are likely having to pay a fee for Devoy, whose contract at Dalymount Park expires in November 2022 after the extension that was confirmed a month ago.

The Verdict

On the face of it this appears to be an exciting signing for the Dons.

Devoy has been one of the stars of the Irish league in 2021 and whilst the quality level across the waters can be doubted, you get several youngsters who prove to be more-than good enough to ply their trade in England.

With Europa League experience to his name as well having played six times during the summer in that competition, Devoy will be able to hold his own in League One and slot straight into that O’Riley role.

It’s smart business from Liam Manning and the transfer team at Stadium MK and if Devoy is a success then the Ireland to England route could be one that is explored more.

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