Shelbourne have completed the signing of former Ireland U21 international Mipo Odubeko on a long-term deal.
The League of Ireland champions announced the signing of Odubeko on Friday afternoon, after speculation in recent weeks that a move could be on the cards.
Odubeko was signed on a free transfer after the conclusion of his spell with Fleetwood Town.
In a statement, Shelbourne confirmed that the 22-year-old has signed a "long term contract" with the club, in a massive boost to their hopes of defending their crown next season.
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Shelbourne confirm signing of Mipo Odubeko
Mipo Odubeko said on Friday that he was "honoured" to join the League of Ireland champions, while manager Damien Duff suggested that Shels had fought off competition from their domestic rivals for Odubeko's signature.
"Every team in Ireland wanted Mipo but I am proud that he has chosen this special club," Duff said.
"He was excited to join the champions but I think the real reason he is here is because we are the no 1 place to unlock potential and get the best out of players.
"He has amazing power, speed and finishing that maybe not enough people have seen. Myself and the staff plan on unleashing all of it. He is a fascinating signing."
Shelbourne's newest star was born in Tallaght, and is also eligible to play for both England and Nigeria. However, he has consistently represented Ireland at underage level.
Odubeko won four caps for the Ireland U21s in 2022, playing in the European Championship playoff defeat to Israel. This came after a prolonged saga in which Odubeko's commitment to Ireland was called into question, amid attempts from Nigeria to sway his allegiances.
Manchester was Odubeko's home for the early stages of his career, as he first joined the Manchester City academy before moving to the other side of the divide and impressing with Manchester United's youth setup.
A move to West Ham United was next up, where Odubeko impressed once again at U23 level and made two senior appearances for David Moyes' side.
Odubeko has spent the last few seasons hopping between loan spells, having spent time at Huddersfield Town, Doncaster Rovers, Port Vale, and Portuguese side Maritimo.
He most recently had a short-lived stint at Fleetwood Town, making 11 appearances for the League Two side. His contract was cancelled earlier this month, prompting speculation that a move to Shelbourne would soon be announced.
Shelbourne will hope to bolster their squad further in the coming months but the acquisition of Mipo Odubeko amid competition from their League of Ireland rivals is a statement of intent as they defend the title for the first time in 18 years.
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