While it would have seemed like an alien concept only a year ago, the path from the League of Ireland to Italy is becoming an increasingly well travelled one.
A number of highly rated young prospects have made the move to Serie A in recent times. Kevin Zefi moved from Shamrock Rovers to Inter Milan, Cathal Heffernan joined AC Milan from Cork City, while James Abankwah would sign for Udinese from St Pat's.
With the UK not an option for many U18 prospects due to visa issues relating to Brexit, such move look likely to be come even more common moving forward.
However, it appears Italian prospects are not only limited to teenagers.
Liam Kerrigan set for Italian move
UCD manager Andy Myler last night confirmed that Ireland U21 star Liam Kerrigan was set to leave the club, moving to Serie B side Como 1907.
UCD manager Andy Myler confirmed after their game that ROI U21 international Liam Kerrigan is joining Serie B side @Como_1907
— Eric White (@ericwhite80) June 25, 2022
While not as eye-catching as some of the transfer mentioned above, this is an intriguing move for the winger. At 22-years old and having features underage international level, Kerrigan looks primed to contribute right away in the Italian second flight.
Como finished 13th in the league last season, although they were in a much better position for much of the campaign only to finish off with a poor run of form.
They are a team on the rise. The club were in Serie A a couple of decades ago, although they would eventually suffer relegation all the way to the Serie D. Having gone bankrupt in 2016, the club would be rebound to make their way up the divisions in recent times.
Kerrigan made three appearances for Ireland in their U21 Euro qualifying campaign, including starting the final two fixtures of the group. He is sure to play some sort of role in the play-off against Israel in September.
What it feels to score your first goal for Ireland 😍
POTM Liam Kerrigan loving life as he helped our U21s on the way to a 3-1 win 🇮🇪#IRLU21 | #COYBIG | #WeAreOne
pic.twitter.com/5U2WEgE9BH— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) June 6, 2022
For now he will join Ireland's ever increasing Italian contingent, which also includes Festy Ebosele after his move to Udinese on a free transfer from Derby County.
In a rapidly changing environment, it is interesting see how our brightest young talents are adapting.
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