Transfers: Dundalk recruit Scottish defender Jamie Walker

Scottish defender Jamie Walker has become Dundalk's fourth signing of the winter transfer window.

The 22-year-old full-back joins from Scottish League One outfit Kelty Hearts and is moving to Oriel Park on a permanent deal.

His arrival follows the signings of winger Robbie Mahon, Dutch midfielder Koen Oosterbrink and ex-UCD player Dara Keane.

"Jamie is a player we have been tracking," Dundalk head coach Stephen O'Donnell said.

"He has a cultured left foot, defends well, is a good athlete and he can handle the ball so he will suit our style of play.

"He hasn’t played for the last few weeks so he will be fresh and we feel he has a lot of scope to improve, both from a physical and from a playing point of view, and we are looking forward to working with him."

Walker said he was relishing the challenge of playing in the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division.

"It's a great opportunity for me," he said.

"The chance to come to a good league and play against, and with, good players was something I wanted to do and I feel I can really improve here under the gaffer.

"I know that there are some very good players in the League of Ireland so it’s a good challenge for me to go and prove myself in a new environment and I’m looking forward to it.

"I’m an attacking full-back and I like defending in one-on-one situations. I love playing football and can’t wait to get out and play in front of the Dundalk fans."

Dundalk will open their 2024 campaign with a trip to reigning four-in-a-row champions Shamrock Rovers on Friday, 16 February at Tallaght Stadium.