Waterford FC star Romeo Akachukwu has sealed his move to English Premier League side Southampton, for a fee believed to be in excess of €500,000.
Acachukwu, formerly of Ferrybank, had attracted interest from a host of clubs across Europe on account of his stellar performances for the Blues - which included a first senior hat-trick in last season’s SSE Airtricity League of Ireland First Division Play-Off Semi-Final against Athlone Town.
The move to St. Mary’s has been confirmed now that Akachukwu has turned 18, and he bas already donned the red and white stripes, scoring in two friendlies for his new club.
In a statement on social media, Akachukwu thanked Waterford FC and their supporters for their unwavering support.
“Dear Waterford FC fans,
After many years at the club, the time has come for me to begin a new chapter in my career.
I would like to thank my teammates, technical staff and all the members of the club for their support and their efforts both on and off the pitch.
I'd like to thank the Waterford fans who have constantly showed me love and gratitude through the highs and lows. Your chants and encouragement are things that will always be and remain with me.
This club has truly left a mark on my career and I feel blessed to have been given the opportunity to play in front of the fans. As I leave to take on a new challenge, I will forever be a Blue at heart and I will be sure to follow the clubs success in the future.
Thank you again for everything, and see you soon.”
A statement from Waterford FC reads:
“Everyone at Waterford FC would like to congratulate Romeo on his move, and thank him for his efforts whilst a Blue. We wish Romeo the very best of luck in his future career – a career that everyone in Waterford will be watching closely – and we look forward to welcoming Romeo back to the RSC as a supporter in the years to come. Once a Blue, Always a Blue.”
Southampton expressed their delight in beating other EPL outfits to Romeo’s signature.
Academy Director Andy Goldie added: "Romeo Akachukwu and his family bought into the club and our vision at the beginning of last season and we're delighted to finally be able to welcome him to Staplewood having now turned eighteen years old last week.
"Having already been in with us during pre-season, he has impressed both Academy and First Team staff with his performances, attitude and humility, and we're very much looking forward to continuing to build on the great work that Mike Geoghegan and the staff at Waterford FC have done in developing him so far."
For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.
