Postecoglou adds teenage striker Kenny to Celtic squad

Celtic have signed striker Johnny Kenny from League of Ireland side Sligo Rovers, subject to international clearance.

The teenage forward becomes manager Ange Postecoglou’s fourth signing of the January transfer window, joining Reo Hatate, Daizen Maeda and Yosuke Ideguchi in signing for the Parkhead club.

Kenny came through the youth system at Sligo before establishing himself in the youth system. He scored 11 goals in the league last year and found the net against Icelandic side HF in Europa Conference League qualifying.

The 18-year-old is a Republic of Ireland Under-19 international and has scored in each of his last three games for the national side.

In a note published on Sligo Rovers’ website, Kenny said that he was ready to test himself at “another level” with Celtic.

He wrote: “After six years at the club I have grown up loving, it has come to an end. This has been such a tough decision and message to write because I love playing for my hometown club and I love being at home.

“But I think now is the time to test myself at another level. I want to say thanks to every academy manager at the club who has helped me. You’ve have been amazing, there is just too many to name.

“To all the people who keep this club running on a daily basis, I want to say thank you for everything since I walked in at that gate at the age of 13.

“To the gaffer Liam Buckley and John Russell – without their trust in me I would be nowhere near where I am today. I can’t speak highly enough of them and what they’ve done for me.

“Finally, to play for the club I love in front of you special fans. It was incredible. I got goosebumps every time my name went around the Showgrounds.

“It was a special feeling to play and score in front of all of you .

“So I want to say a massive thanks for taking to me and the support you’ve given me and I’m sorry I didn’t give you the send-off you deserved. I am now and forever a supporter of Rovers and I can’t wait to watch and support from across the water.

“This club has a special place in my heart. Thank you.”

Sligo Rovers manager Liam Buckley said: “Johnny has been magnificent for Sligo Rovers. At a very young age he showed all the attributes to make a successful career in the game and he can take great pride in what he has already achieved in these very early days.

“It was clear a move would occur at some point and as it comes now, all of our staff, players and coaches wish him the very best. He retains our support whenever needed.”