Underage captain Heffernan inks deal with AC Milan

Ireland Under-17 captain Cathal Heffernan's move to AC Milan from Cork City has been confirmed.

The 16-year-old was awaiting FIFA clearance before the loan move was finalised with the San Siro club.

It is expected that the young Irish prospect will sign a permanent deal in the summer, having been on trial at the club in 2021.

Cork City teenager Cathal Heffernan is on the brink of a big move to AC Milan@CorkTOD has been speaking to the Irish youth international and his Olympian parents Marian and @RM_Heffernan #RTESoccer pic.twitter.com/mzeTp1RAho

The defender is the son of Irish Olympian parents, Marian and Rob Heffernan, and joins fellow Ireland underage internationals Kevin Zefi (Inter Milan) and James Abankwah (Udinese) plying his trade in Italy.

"Finally it's official. So proud of you Cathal this is only the beginning Now it’s time to work," said Cathal's father Rob on social media, confirming the news that the deal was done.

Finally it's official. So proud of you Cathal this is only the beginning ❤️ Now it’s time to work #teamheff #driveon pic.twitter.com/gLRkm2jKTU