The League of Ireland’s Most Expensive Sales

The League of Ireland has in recent years produced several players who have gone on to be sold for substantial transfer fees in international markets. These transfers symbolize the growing recognition of the league as a breeding ground for top-level talent. Below, we explore three of the most expensive sales in the league’s history.

1. Gavin Bazunu: Shamrock Rovers to Manchester City (€1.5 million)

Gavin Bazunu’s transfer from Shamrock Rovers to Manchester City in 2019 remains one of the most significant deals in the history of the League of Ireland. The Dublin-born goalkeeper was just 16 years old when he made the switch, but his potential was already clear. Bazunu had impressed in his debut season for Shamrock Rovers, particularly with a series of clean sheets that included a standout performances every week.

Manchester City’s acquisition of Bazunu for a reported fee of €1.5 million was a testament to his growing reputation. While he spent much of his early time in England on loan to gain experience, including stints at Rochdale and Portsmouth, Bazunu’s move set a precedent for the kind of talent the League of Ireland could produce. The goalkeeper has made many appearances in the Premier League for Southampton, and is still with the Saints following their immediate return to the top flight.

2. Jamie McGrath: St. Mirren to Wigan Athletic (€1.1 million)

Jamie McGrath’s journey from the League of Ireland to Republic of Ireland caps is another success story for Irish football. McGrath began his professional career with St. Patrick’s Athletic before moving to Dundalk, where he honed his craft and became one of the league’s standout performers. His move to Scottish side St. Mirren in 2020 proved to be a stepping stone to bigger things.

In January 2022, McGrath was sold to Wigan Athletic for a fee in the region of €1.1 million. The transfer marked one of the highest fees ever paid for a League of Ireland player and highlighted the league’s ability to develop players who could command significant value in the broader football market.

3. Matt Doherty: Bohemians to Wolverhampton Wanderers (€90,000)

Though not as high as the others on this list, Matt Doherty’s transfer from Bohemians to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2010 for a modest €90,000 was a landmark deal that laid the groundwork for future big-money moves. Doherty quickly became a mainstay at Wolves, helping them secure promotion to the Premier League and established himself as a top-tier player in England.

Doherty’s success in the Premier League, and subsequent move to Tottenham Hotspur, proved the potential for players from the League of Ireland to make a significant impact in one of the world’s top leagues. His career trajectory has inspired many young Irish players, showing that the League of Ireland can bea achievable pathway to the highest levels of European football.