Dundalk sign former PSV youth player Koen Oostenbrink

Dundalk have announced the signing of Dutch midfielder Koen Oostenbrink ahead of the upcoming SSE Airtricity Premier Division season, subject to international clearance..

The one-time Netherlands Under-17 international cap came through the youth ranks of Eredivisie giants PSV Eindhoven and joins the Lilywhites after a recent two-year spell at FC Eindhoven in the Dutch second tier.

The 23-year-old becomes the second addition to Stephen O'Donnell's side during the winter window.

"Koen has an excellent pedigree," Dundalk head coach O'Donnell said.

"He came up through the PSV academy and helped FC Eindhoven to the playoffs in the Dutch second tier last year.

"He is a cultured midfielder who can play off both feet and he is good physically. He wants to kick on and progress his career and we’re really excited to have him here."

Oostenbrink described the move to Dundalk as "an easy decision" after talks with O'Donnell and the Louth side's Head of Football Operations, ex-club captain Brian Gartland.

"I found out about Dundalk's interest last week and when I spoke to the coach (Stephen O’Donnell) and Brian (Gartland), it was all positive," he said.

"Stephen is a football coach and I like how he said he wants us to play. I think he can improve me because he was a number six himself.

"I know Dundalk from when they played in the Europa League against AZ Alkmaar a few years ago and I am happy that they want to give me the chance to develop myself and become a better player."

Dundalk, who finished fifth in the Premier Division last season, will open their 2024 campaign away at reigning four-in-a-row champions Shamrock Rovers on Friday, 16 February.