Dundalk FC defender Leonard set for move to Norwich

An agreement has been reached with Dundalk FC and English Championship club Norwich City for the transfer of defender Vinnie Leonard.

As part of the agreement, Vinnie will remain with Dundalk until the opening of the UK summer window, at which point the move will be completed, subject to medical, international clearance and FA and EFL approval.

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The 17-year-old made his debut for the Lilywhites in February 2024 in the Leinster Senior Cup and made his full league debut that October against Shamrock Rovers.

Vinnie then became an important part of our promotion-winning campaign last year and was named in the PFAI Team of the Year. 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.

“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 Ciarán 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.”