DONE DEAL: The sensational ace from the Republic of Ireland has officially signed with Stoke City, but regrettably…..

Stoke City have announced the signing of Republic of Ireland youth international Darius Lipsiuc from St Patrick’s Athletic.

The 18-year-old midfielder has agreed to a two-and-a-half year professional contract with the club, set to join the Potters’ Under-21s squad.

Starting his football career at local club St Mochtas at the age of nine, Lipsiuc made the move to St Patrick’s Athletic Academy in the summer of 2021.

His rapid ascent through the ranks saw him progress from the U17s to the U19s, where he played in the UEFA Youth League games against Red Star Belgrade.

Making his first team debut for St Patrick’s Athletic in October 2022, he went on to captain the U19 team, leading them to a league victory in 2022 and earning the Players’ Player of the Year title in 2023.

Lipsiuc also shone on the international stage, scoring his first goal for Ireland’s Under-19s in October and earning five caps to date, two of which were alongside fellow Potter Jake Griffin in the European Championship qualification campaign.

Academy Director Gareth Owen expressed his excitement about Lipsiuc’s arrival. “The Academy’s recruitment team identified Darius and have tracked his progress for a period of time,” he said.

“We are delighted to now be able to bring him into our programme.”

Owen praised Lipsiuc’s leadership and potential as a positive influence, both on and off the pitch, adding, “We look forward to seeing his development during the next two-and-a-half years.”