Transfers: Sligo sign Nando Pijnaker on permanent deal

Sligo Rovers have agreed a permanent deal for New Zealand international Nando Pijnaker.

The 23-year-old defender spent the 2022 season on loan at the Showgrounds from Portuguese Primeira Liga side Rio Ave.

Pijnaker has won 11 caps with New Zealand. He previously played in Sweden with Torslanda IK and Grasshopper before he made the move to Rio Ave in 2020.

"I’m delighted Nando has agreed to sign on a permanent deal," said Sligo boss John Russell.

"Nando is a player of immense quality. He is a current International and he has all the attributes to play at the highest level.

"He is a top professional and someone who is very driven and always willing to listen and learn. I feel he can take his game to another level in 2023."

Pijnaker said he was thrilled to get the deal done: "I have really enjoyed my time in Sligo so far and I was keen to come back here on a permanent basis.

"I wish to thank everyone at Rio Ave for helping me in my career and I am looking forward to my future here at the Showgrounds. The supporters and the town in general have been so welcoming to me and made me feel at home.’’

Cork City have brought in Ethon Varian on loan from Bohemians.

The 21-year-old Cork native played his schoolboy football at Greenwood, before joining Stoke City. He joined Bohs last July but will spend the 2023 season on Leeside with Colin Healy's newly promoted side.

"I am really looking forward to playing in front of the fans as a Cork City player," said the striker.

"I grew up supporting the club, going to games with my friends, and I have some great memories at Turner’s Cross from when I was younger, watching the likes of Colin Healy play.

"I am hoping I can give the City fans something to cheer about and, hopefully, we can create more great