Bohemians make first move into summer transfer market to snap up Steo Donnelly

Bohemians have bolstered their striking ranks for the second half of the season with the signing of AUL Premier A's top scorer Steo Donnelly.

Donnelly, a lifelong Bohs fans, arrives having amassed 25 goals in 16 games for Usher Celtic this season as the Islandbridge club look set to be pipped to the title by Sheriff YC.

The 24-year-old joined Usher at the beginning of the season after spending five years in America, first on a scholarship with Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania and then a year coaching.

He was arguably amateur football's hottest prospect after his prolific season and had offers from other League of Ireland clubs, including local side St Patrick's Athletic, as well as clubs up north.

“It’s a dream come true. I’ve been going to Bohs games with my da since I was five years old,” Donnelly told the club's official website.

“I really can’t wait to play for that jersey, it will mean a lot.

“I’ve had the best year of football this year with Usher and I owe everything to everyone at the club but I’m looking forward to the challenge of stepping up to a higher level now.”

Donnelly will be cleared to line out for the Gypsies after the summer break as the window for amateur players opened at the beginning of this month.

He will compete with established marksmen Dinny Corcoran and Izzy Akinade, who is expected to return from injury soon, for the starting jersey with Keith Long's side.