Bohemians defender Warren O'Hora signs for Premier League Brighton & Hove Albion

Republic of Ireland under-19 defender Warren O'Hora has signed for English Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion from Bohemians on a two-and-a-half-year deal.

The 18-year-old made his breakthrough to the Gypsies' first team last season, making 11 appearances in total following his debut in the 3-1 victory over St Patrick's Athletic in June.

The former St Kevin's Boys schoolboy was part of the Bohs side that brought Cork City's 22-match unbeaten run to an end at Turner's Cross in July, keeping a clean sheet in the process.

And his performances for Keith Long's side didn't go unnoticed by scouts, with Shrewsbury Town and Norwich City also showing keen interest over the Christmas Period.

Speaking to Bohemians' official website, O'Hora cited the facilities at Brighton's Elite Football Performance Centre training ground as key to his decision.

“We all want to make it as professional footballers in the Premier League, so it helps to be at a good training ground with excellent surroundings every day,” said the Dubliner.

“I just can’t wait to get started, get into the U23s, get in the gym and work hard every day. Hopefully I can do well and play in the Premier League at some point.

“I’ve met a few of the lads already, there’s a few Irish boys here already and I’ve played with some of them at international level.

“The team are great and made me feel right at home straight away. Knowing people from home makes it a bit easier.”

Long added: “Warren’s accomplished a lot in his few years with us.

“He has shown level of ability, maturity and mentality beyond his years and was a consistent performer for us in the second half of last season in a key position.

“He took the step-up to first-team football in his stride. Moving to a club in the Premier League at such a young age is obviously another huge step for him but I believe he has the ability to progress to that level.

“It’s a testament to his own ability and hard work but also to the work Jimmy has done at under-17 level and that Graham is doing with our under-19s that the club is producing players of his calibre.”

O'Hora is expected to link up with Brighton's under-23 Premier League 2 side for the remainder of the season, where he'll link up with compatriots Jayson Molumby, Aaron Connolly, Daniel Mandriou and Dessie Hutchinson.