Dundalk defender Vinnie Leonard lifts the SSE Airtricity League First Division trophy. Photo by Ben McShane/Sportsfile
Dundalk Football Club has confirmed today that an agreement has been reached with English Championship club Norwich City for the transfer of Vinnie Leonard.
The club said that as part of the agreement, Vinnie will remain with Dundalk FC until the opening of the UK summer window, at which point the move will be completed, subject to medical, international clearance and FA, EFL approval.
He finished 2025 starring for Ireland in the Under-17 World Cup in Qatar.
Executive Director Chris Clinton commented: "We are incredibly proud of Vinnie and everything he has achieved here. This move is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and development, and it reflects positively on the Club as a whole.
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"It’s also a clear example of what we are committed to building at Dundalk FC — an Academy and player development pathway that gives talented young players the coaching, support and opportunities to emerge within our environment, contribute at first-team level, and be ready to seize the right opportunity when it presents itself. Vinnie has embraced that journey at every stage, and we’re delighted to see him earn this opportunity at Norwich City.
"This has been a deal months in the making, with a huge amount of work done behind the scenes, and I want to personally thank Peter Halpin for his persistence and professionalism in conducting and eventually finalising the transfer on behalf of the Club.”
First Team Manager Ciaran Kilduff added: “Vinnie has earned this opportunity through his performances, his attitude, and his commitment to improving every aspect of his game.
"He is a credit to himself and to the Club. While we are proud of what this move represents for him, our full focus is on the here and now, and Vinnie remains fully committed to giving everything for the Club until the summer.”
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