Shamrock Rovers have confirmed that Kevin Zefi has signed for Inter Milan.
16-year-old Zefi has played for Rovers at Under 15, Under 17, Under 19 and League of Ireland First Division level.
Zefi spent some time on trial at Inter Milan earlier this year and spoke positively about the experience upon his return.
“I went over in February for a month. I was just getting a feel for the team, seeing how it was and I liked it”, he said.
The Clonsilla native, who is a Republic of Ireland Schoolboy/Youth player, has family in Italy and has also been learning Italian.
Speaking about the move, Zefi thanked those involved with his development at the Hoops.
“Thomas Morgan and Dessie Baker helped me to grow as a player and I have to thank them for that and for all the advice they gave me.
"I really appreciate everything they did for me in the short space of time I worked for them.
"I’d like to thank also Aidan Price for giving me the opportunity to play for the B team last season and express myself and I’d like to thank Shane Robinson, head of the Academy.”
Robinson meanwhile spoke highly of the youngster, saying they'd miss him at the club but wishing him the best for the future.
“Kevin Zefi is that type of player that catches the eye easily – he backs himself 100% in possession of the ball.
"He has lovely balance and uses his body very well to protect the ball.
"He has worked very hard on his overall game over the last number of years and deserves credit for that, he has gone up through the levels impressively from U15 to U19 with First Division appearances last season also.
"We will miss him around the Academy but will watch on with pride as his career continues to progress at Inter Milan.”
