One of the unforeseen consequences in recent years has been the effect it has had on young Irish footballers.
Prior to the UK's exit from the European Union, it was commonplace for the brightest young players in Ireland to move to English clubs at the age of 16. However, the rules now in place mean that such talents cannot make the move across the Irish Sea until they turn 18.
While many of them are now playing their first couple of years in senior football in the League of Ireland as a result, others have opted to broaden their horizons and make the move to the continent, where they are still free to move at 16-years old.
Many high profile players have gone down that route over the last couple of years, with the likes of Kevin Zefi (Inter), Cathal Heffernan (AC Milan), and Matthew Moore (Hoffenheim) chief amongst them.
It seems another one of our most promising talents looks set to follow their example.
READ HERE: Serie A Move On The Cards For Ireland Midfielder
Ireland underage star set for European move
Shamrock Rovers have produced some wonderful talents in recent years, many of whom have been coveted by some of the biggest clubs in Europe and the UK.
Naj Razi is the latest one, with the 17-year old having already caught the eye at the Tallaght Stadium and during his time with the Republic of Ireland youth sides, where he has been capped up to U17 level. He now looks set for a move to the continent.
Football Insider reporter Peter O'Rourke is reporting that Naj Razi is set to join Italian club Como.
Shamrock Rovers star Naj Razi has agreed a move to Italian side Como. #Como #ShamrockRovers
— Pete O'Rourke (@SportsPeteO) January 31, 2024
While currently in Serie B, Como are a club with huge ambitions. They have a number of high profile backers, with the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Thierry Henry among their shareholders. Fabregas also had a spell as a player and caretaker manager at the club.
They are currently in fourth place in the middle and are very much in the promotion mix. Former UCD and Ireland U21 star Liam Kerrigan is part of their squad, although he is currently on loan at Serie C club Novara as he continues his recovery from a long-term injury.
Naj Razi is sure to have sought assurances about playing time from any interested clubs, with the youngster clearly feeling that Como will give him the opportunity to shine.
It will be interesting to track his progress over the next couple of years.
SEE ALSO: Sky Sports Quickly Backtracked After Jay Bothroyd Called Northern Ireland A 'Foreign Country'
