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The Battle for a Rising Star
The race to secure the talents of St Patrick’s Athletic’s young sensation Mason Melia is heating up, with Celtic and Brighton now leading the charge. Both clubs are believed to be preparing formal offers for the 16-year-old centre-forward, who has been turning heads with his performances in Ireland.
Premier League Interest Cools as Scottish and English Clubs Advance
While Manchester City and Everton previously expressed strong interest in the Dubliner, their pursuit has cooled, allowing Celtic and Brighton to take pole position in negotiations. Despite a trial with the Premier League champions last year, Melia left without a contract offer, and Everton’s discussions have not led to a deal.
A Record of Excellence
Melia’s reputation as one of Ireland’s most promising talents is well-founded. Since his senior debut in 2023, the striker has racked up seven goals and three assists in 43 appearances for St Patrick’s Athletic, including participating in the Europa Conference League qualifiers and a robust showing last season with 28 appearances.
International Acclaim and Brighton’s Irish Success
On the international stage, Melia has represented the Republic of Ireland from Under-15s to Under-19s, showcasing his skills to a broader audience. Brighton, in particular, has a track record of nurturing talent from the League of Ireland, with players like Andrew Moran, Aaron Connolly, and Evan Ferguson making the leap to the first team.
Celtic’s Irish Connection
Not to be outdone, Celtic has deep roots in Ireland and is looking to make a significant move by securing Melia’s services. With Irish internationals like Mikey Johnston, Bosun Lawal, and Liam Scales already at Parkhead, the Glasgow giants offer a promising pathway for the young striker.
Everton’s Loss Could Be Celtic or Brighton’s Gain
As the transfer saga unfolds, Melia’s future remains a hot topic, with Celtic and Brighton vying to add the young talent to their ranks. Meanwhile, in other football news, Dominic Calvert-Lewin is rumored to be considering his future at Everton, adding another layer of intrigue to the summer transfer window.
