Waterford agree ‘club record’ fee as Romeo Akachukwu joins Southampton

Premier Division Waterford have confirmed the departure of Romeo Akachukwu, who has joined English Premier League side Southampton.The 18-year-old has spent the last few weeks on trial with the Saints with a view to joining on a permanent deal.

Romeo Akachukwu of Waterford during the SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division match between Waterford and Shelbourne at the Regional Sports Centre in Waterford.

And he completed his switch to Southampton on Monday having played 35 times at senior level for Waterford in the First Division and Premier Division.He also lined out for Ireland’s under-17 side at the European Championship last year.“I’m buzzing,” Akachukwu said.

“The standard is obviously really good and it’s a place I feel like I can thrive so I’m just looking forward to the season to get going.“I’d say I want to progress into the First Team, I want to try and score goals, try to help the team as much as I can week in week out and just give it my all and see where it takes me.

”The attacker will initially join Southampton’s Under-21 side.And a statement from the Blues read: “Waterford FC can confirm that Romeo Akachukwu has departed the club to join English Premier League club Southampton for a club-record undisclosed fee.

“Everyone at Waterford FC would like to congratulate Romeo on his move, and thank him for his efforts whilst a Blue.“We wish Romeo the very best of luck in his future career – a career that everyone in Waterford will be watching closely – and we look forward to welcoming Romeo back to the RSC as a supporter in the years to come.”