Swansea swoop for Northern Ireland youngster

Swansea City have completed the signing of striker Rory Donnelly from Northern Irish outfit Cliftonville for an undisclosed fee.

The 19-year-old elected to sign a deal which keeps him at the Liberty Stadium until June 2015, despite interest from Everton and Liverpool.

The Northern Ireland Under-21 international passed a medical on Friday and is set to join his new side’s training next week.

“We are delighted to be able to attract one of Northern Ireland’s biggest talents, I am really looking forward to helping Rory fulfil his potential and, hopefully, over the next few years ensure that Swansea City has another exciting young player blossoming at the club,” Swansea manager Brendan Rodgers said.

Donnelly has described the move as a “dream” but thanked his former club for their commitment to fielding young players, which paved the way for a switch to the Premier League.

“Like Swansea, Cliftonville had faith in me and I’m grateful that manager Tommy Breslin was also prepared to give youth a chance,” Donnelly said.

“I’d like to thank the club and the fans, manager and the coaching staff for developing me as a player. I hope I’ve repaid them with goals and a transfer fee.”

“But now I just can’t wait to get started at Swansea. I’ve worked hard for the chance, but I’m still grateful and thankful to be here.”

After scoring 13 goals for Cliftonville in the Northern Irish Premiership this season, Donnelly said he was confident he would fit in well at the Liberty Stadium.

“Everything has happened so quickly that I still can’t quite believe it, it’s a dream come true,” Donnelly said.

“I was really impressed with what the manager had to say when I met him. He couldn’t have done anything more to impress me.”

“I believe I am signing for a brilliant manager who is prepared to give youth a chance.”

“I also met the likes of Scott Sinclair and Joe Allen when I was over here last week and it only reinforced the belief that Swansea is the right club for me.”

“I know there was serious interest from Everton and Liverpool, but I love the way Swansea play the game and I think it will suit me.”

“The manager has told me there is no pressure on me because I am only 19. In time there will be pressure, but not right now.”