Liverpool Sign Irish Midfielder O'Sullivan in Record-Breaking Deal

By BBC Sport Football Correspondent | Published: January 17, 2026

Liverpool FC have completed the signing of highly-rated Irish midfielder Liam O'Sullivan from Shamrock Rovers in a deal that could rise to £45 million, marking the club's first major January transfer window splash under new manager Arne Slot.

The 19-year-old, who captains the Republic of Ireland U21 side, has been a standout performer in the League of Ireland, scoring 12 goals and providing 15 assists in 28 appearances this season. His vision, dribbling ability, and long-range passing have drawn comparisons to a young Steven Gerrard, Liverpool's legendary homegrown talent.

Record Fee for Irish Talent

The initial fee of £30 million, with add-ons potentially taking it to £45 million, shatters the previous record for an Irish player, eclipsing the £27 million Brighton paid for Evan Ferguson in 2023. O'Sullivan's release clause was triggered after weeks of negotiation, with Liverpool fending off interest from Manchester United, Arsenal, and Bundesliga clubs like Borussia Dortmund.

"Liam is a generational talent with the quality to become a Liverpool legend," Slot said in his first interview since the deal. "His hunger matches our ambitions. We're building for the future."

Path to Anfield

O'Sullivan, from Dublin, rose through Shamrock Rovers' academy, debuting at 16. He made his senior Ireland debut last month, assisting in a 2-1 win over Denmark. Medicals were completed at the AXA Training Centre on Friday, with O'Sullivan signing a five-and-a-half-year contract.

Fans erupted in celebration on social media, with #OSullivanToLFC trending worldwide. However, some critics question the fee for a player with limited senior experience outside Ireland.

Slot's Midfield Overhaul

This signing addresses Liverpool's midfield depth issues after injuries to Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch. O'Sullivan is expected to compete with Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones, potentially debuting in the Merseyside Derby against Everton next weekend.

Liverpool sit third in the Premier League, seven points behind leaders Arsenal. O'Sullivan's arrival bolsters their title charge and Champions League ambitions.

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