Seagulls swoop for young Bohemians defender Warren O’Hora

Teenager signs two-and-a-half year deal at Brighton after impressing on trial

Warren O’Hora (left) in action for Bohemians against Drogheda United in September 2017. Photograph:  Tommy Dickson/Inpho
Warren O’Hora (left) in action for Bohemians against Drogheda United in September 2017. Photograph: Tommy Dickson/Inpho

Brighton have completed the signing of Republic of Ireland under-19 international Warren O'Hora from Bohemians.

The 18-year-old defender has agreed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the Premier League side for an undisclosed fee and will initially join the club’s under-23 squad.

O’Hora’s move follows a successful trial period with Albion at the end of 2017.

Brighton's under-23 coach Simon Rusk told the club's official website: "We're pleased to secure the services of Warren after he impressed during a couple of training sessions before Christmas.

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“He’s had some good experience playing in Ireland’s Premier Division last season and he’ll certainly add to the competition we already have in central defence.

“We’re delighted to welcome him to the club and are keen to contribute towards his continued development as a footballer.”

O’Hora, Brighton’s first signing of the transfer widow, came through the academy system at Bohemians and played 11 times for the first team.

He has also represented his country at youth level, most recently playing for Ireland’s Under-19s in their European Championship qualifier against Cyprus in October.