Belfast, Northern Ireland – Shamrock Rovers’ 16-year-old talent, Victor Ozhianvuna, is set to join Premier League giants Arsenal in January 2027 for a reported €2 million, following a successful medical in London.
The highly-rated teenager, who made his first-team debut for Rovers in July during a 4-0 FAI Cup win over Wexford, has been absent from recent UEFA Conference League matches, sparking speculation about the move. Rovers manager Stephen Bradley praised Ozhianvuna’s versatility, noting he can play in multiple positions, including midfield and attack, and described him as a “fearless” and technical player.
The transfer agreement, which includes a four-and-a-half-year contract, was negotiated over several years between Rovers’ sporting director Stephen McPhail and Arsenal’s head of recruitment James Ellis, allowing the young Irish star to continue developing in Ireland before officially joining the Gunners. Due to Brexit regulations, Irish players cannot move to UK clubs until turning 18; Ozhianvuna reaches this milestone on January 10, 2027.
Ozhianvuna, of Russian and Nigerian heritage, previously impressed scouts during his under-14 and European appearances, including a Conference League debut against Molde. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shown a willingness to play teenagers at the top level, exemplified by Ethan Nwaneri and Max Dowman, highlighting the club’s long-term vision for Ozhianvuna.
The €2 million deal also includes potential add-ons tied to future appearances and international caps, mirroring similar agreements for Irish youth players such as Mason Melia, who joined Tottenham Hotspur. Rovers are expected to continue developing Ozhianvuna over the next 17 months, ensuring he gains valuable experience before moving to the Premier League.
With his emergence, Ozhianvuna joins a growing list of Irish teenagers opting to stay in the League of Ireland until adulthood, benefiting from consistent first-team football while preparing for moves abroad.