Preston sign Alan Browne from Cork City

The teenage midfielder has agreed to move to England after impressing for the Leesiders Under-19 panel

Cork City have confirmed the departure of teenager Alan Browne, who will move to Preston North End when the transfer window opens on January 1.



The attacking midfielder was regarded as the best prospect in the Under-19 Elite League of Ireland, after joining the Leesiders at the start of the 2012-13 season from Ringmahon Rangers. His form for Cork's underage side saw him receive a call-up to the Republic of Ireland Under-19 squad, where he earned the praise of assistant manager Harry Crawford.



Cork City chief executive Tim Murphy announced Browne's departure on the club's official website. "We would like to thank Alan for his contribution during his time at the club and wish him the best of luck for the future," Murphy said. "We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Preston which we feel is good for the player and for the club.



"We would also like to acknowledge the huge contribution made by Alan’s schoolboy club, Ringmahon Rangers, to his development. Should Alan’s career continue to progress, we are confident that Cork City FC stand to benefit again in the future.”



Meanwhile, Shamrock Rovers have completed their second signing since the end of the 2013 season, bringing in Luke Byrne from Bohemians. The 20-year-old defender spoke of his delight at signing for the Hoops."I'm really excited to be here," Byrne told the club's official website. "I’m looking forward to playing with great players at a great stadium and under a great manager and I’m looking forward to winning things at Shamrock Rovers."