Quinn secures huge move to Celtic
By Stephen Leonard
Ben Quinn is about to take his first step into the big time after penning a pre-contract that will see him join Celtic Football Club on a three-year professional deal.
The former Cherry Orchard forward, who sparked serious interest from some 10 Premier League clubs including Manchester City and Wolves, will make the move to the Scottish giants next January.
Ben Quinn
The 15-year-old went on trial there last August, scoring once and carding two assists in a trial match after which he was verbally offered a contract.
The following month that offer was made official and, after some negotiation, the pre-contract was signed last week.
“When he went to Celtic on trial he said immediately that it felt like home” Quinn’s father Pat told The Echo.
A contender for The Echo Sports Star of the Year in 2018, Quinn has really caught the eye over the past 12 months, playing a key role in the DDSL’s Kennedy Cup success back in June before earning nine international caps with the Republic of Ireland Under 15s for whom he has already scored twice.
Ben Quinn with his parents Gillian and Pat and Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell
after the former Cherry Orchard player signed a pre-contract with the Scottish giants
Joining St Patrick’s Athletic’s Under 15 National League side from Cherry Orchard he has helped them to a great start, the team winning all of their opening six games.
Indeed he has impressed so much that the St Pat’s Under 17s have also called on his services and he is poised to make his competitive debut for them against Derry City at the Brandywell this coming Sunday.
Currently training with the club’s Under 17 and 19 players, Quinn is sure to be well prepared for his move to Celtic where he will be hoping to soon break in among the club’s reserves before setting his sights on first team football.
