Cian Kavanagh Joins Sligo Rovers from St Pat’s

Friday, November 29

Cork City: Ahead of their return to the Premier Division in 2025, Cork City has announced the signing of 21-year-old left-back Benny Couto. Couto, originally from Lisbon, began his career at Oldham Athletic, making 28 first-team appearances. He joined Ashton United in August, but his time there was brief, and he has now chosen to continue his career in the League of Ireland. Cork City manager Tim Clancy expressed excitement about the signing, praising Couto’s potential and valuable experience from the English Football League.

Sligo Rovers: Cian Kavanagh has moved from St Patrick’s Athletic to Sligo Rovers, signing a two-year contract with the club. The 21-year-old striker struggled to secure a regular starting spot at St Pat’s, making only two league starts in 2024. Kavanagh is eager to earn a place in the starting lineup at Sligo and hopes to contribute significantly to the team’s success. He was drawn to Sligo after meeting manager John Russell and hearing about the club’s future plans.

Drogheda United: Drogheda United, the FAI Cup champions, have confirmed that midfielders Warren Davis, Steve Zishim Bawa, and defenders James Bolger and Aaron Harper-Bailey will all remain at the club for the 2025 Premier Division season.

Drogheda United Tribute: Drogheda United paid tribute to their captain, Gary Deegan, who is departing the club after four seasons. Deegan, 37, played a key role in Drogheda’s success and made 134 appearances. Manager Kevin Doherty praised Deegan’s leadership and work ethic, wishing him the best for the future.

Tuesday, November 26

Derry City: Derry City is making a strong effort to sign Northern Ireland international Gavin Whyte, who is a free agent after leaving Portsmouth. The 28-year-old attacking midfielder has attracted interest from several clubs in both Ireland and Northern Ireland. Derry’s new manager, Tiernan Lynch, is keen to bring Whyte on board as part of a squad overhaul following key player departures.

St Patrick’s Athletic: Tom Grivosti, a key central defender for St Pat’s, has signed a new two-year deal with the club. Manager Stephen Kenny commended Grivosti’s resilience in returning to top form after a year-long injury layoff. Grivosti’s calm decision-making and defensive intelligence have been vital to St Pat’s resurgence.

Cork City: Cork City has strengthened its squad with the signing of 21-year-old winger Alex Nolan from St Patrick’s Athletic. Nolan, who was part of a cup-winning team and played in European competition, is expected to make a significant impact as Cork prepares for its return to the Premier Division.

Waterford FC: Waterford FC has secured 19-year-old midfielder Sam Glenfield on a multi-year contract after a successful loan spell from Fleetwood Town. Waterford manager Keith Long praised Glenfield’s potential and sees him as an important part of the squad for the upcoming 2025 season.

Friday, November 22

St Patrick’s Athletic: Axel Sjoberg, a Swedish full-back, has extended his contract with St Pat’s for a third season. Sjoberg played a key role in the team’s strong finish last season after overcoming injuries. Manager Stephen Kenny highlighted his defensive intelligence and composure on the ball.

Shelbourne: Shelbourne bolstered their defense by securing a new contract for full-back Seán Gannon, who played a key role in the club’s title-winning season. Gannon is determined to pursue further success with Shelbourne in 2025.

Thursday, November 21

Shelbourne: Tyreke Wilson, a versatile defender for Shelbourne, has signed a multi-year contract after featuring in all but two games during their title-winning campaign. Midfielder JJ Lunney also extended his contract with the club, keeping him at Tolka Park until 2027. Additionally, players Harry Wood, Paddy Barrett, Mark Coyle, and Evan Caffrey have committed to Shelbourne for the 2025 season.

Wednesday, November 20

Shelbourne: Sean Boyd, a key player in Shelbourne’s league title win, has signed a new contract with the club. Boyd scored crucial goals in the final stretch of the season, including three in the last three games, helping secure the title. Goalkeeper Conor Kearns has also signed a new deal after a stellar season, contributing to Shelbourne’s strong defensive record.

Friday, November 15

Shelbourne: Shelbourne confirmed the departure of three players from their title-winning squad: defender Shane Griffin, striker Matty Smith, and striker Dean Williams. Griffin, who had made just 12 league appearances this season, was one of manager Damien Duff’s first signings. Smith, who struggled for goals despite key moments, left after an inconsistent season. Williams, who had minimal impact, also departed after his contract expired.

Galway United: Galway United confirmed that Greg Cunningham will stay for the 2025 season. Cunningham, who had a promising return to the club after a spell abroad, was injured during the campaign but is set to continue his career with the Tribesmen. Garry Buckley, Jimmy Keohane, and Bobby Burns have also extended their contracts.

Sligo Rovers: John Mahon, a local center-back who missed much of the 2024 season due to injury, has signed a two-year contract with Sligo Rovers. Mahon expressed his gratitude for the club’s trust in him and aims to repay that faith in the upcoming season.

Cobh Ramblers: Cobh Ramblers are looking for a new manager after announcing the departure of Gary Hunt, following a recent takeover by the USA-based FC32 group.

Wednesday, November 13

Waterford FC: Andy Boyle, a former Ireland international, completed his move from Dundalk to Waterford FC after Dundalk’s relegation. The 33-year-old defender brings a wealth of experience to Waterford as they prepare for the 2025 season.

Monday, November 11

St Patrick’s Athletic: New signing Simon Power joined St Pat’s on a two-year deal. Power, who previously played under manager Stephen Kenny at Ireland Under-21 level, comes to Inchicore after an injury-hit season with Sligo Rovers.