LIMERICK FC DEFENDER Paudie O’Connor has secured a move to Championship contenders Leeds United.

O’Connor, 19, spent three years at the Blues — featuring prominently in both their ill-fated 2015 Premier Division campaign and success-laden 2016 First Division season.

Signing this morning, the young centre-back agreed terms on a two-and-a-half year deal with the Yorkshire side after impressing in recent weeks. O’Connor had spent time on trial with Crystal Palace and Leicester City before signing for Leeds.

Starting out for local side Kilcornan, the Ballybrown native also appeared for Breska Rovers and Regional United before being picked up for Limerick’s U19s.

His meteoric rise to senior level was quick and unquestioned and he formed a partnership with the seasoned Robbie Williams — a Yorkshire native himself.

[I] would like to thank everybody at Limerick FC for the last three and a half years,” O’Connor said in a short statement on Twitter

“Been an amazing time there and always loved representing the jersey and I’m very grateful to Martin and the club for the opportunity to play senior football. Also like to thank the fans for the support they have given me and the lads over the years, it’s greatly appreciated. Wishing ye all the very best of luck for the season ahead.”

He will join Irish international Eunan O’Kane at Elland Road under the charge of Garry Monk.

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