Teenage sensation Nestory Irankunda’s move to Bayern Munich has been confirmed, with Adelaide United securing what is understood to be an A-League record transfer fee for the services of the prodigy.
Irankunda, 17, will remain with the Reds for the rest of the 2023-24 before moving to the German giants on a multi-year deal reportedly worth $A5.8 million, plus add-ons, to the Adelaide club.
“I’m happy to have this all finalised and to be heading to one of the best clubs in the world – it’s a real dream come true,” Irankunda said.
“I’ve worked hard to try to make my family proud.”
Bayern’s director of youth development Jochen Sauer said Irankunda had been on the club’s “radar for some time”.
“Nestory is an extremely fast winger, good at dribbling and finishing, and with a lot of power towards the goal,” Sauer said.
“We are convinced of his potential and that he will take the next steps with us.”
Reds chief executive officer Nathan Kosmina said with the highly anticipated deal having been finalised, attacking weapon Irankunda could now “avoid any distraction” and focus on helping Adelaide strive for this season’s championship.
“Given Nestory’s age, he will not complete his transfer until July 2024, which gives our members and fans a great opportunity to see one of the world’s brightest young talents play at Coopers Stadium for the entirety of the A-League 2023/24 season,” Kosmina said.
“We are proud of Nestory and the role our club has played in his development.
“We have a strong track record of developing young South Australian talent and we want to see our players get opportunities to play at the highest level.
“While as a club our primary focus is always team success, developing players that can go on to represent Australia and play in the top leagues in the world is something we are extremely proud of.”
Irankunda fires home unstoppable goal! | 00:48
Irankunda wants to finish his Reds career on a high.
“It’s going to be great to be able to see out the season with Adelaide United and try to have some success.” he said.
“I’m really grateful to have had such a loving and respectful environment since I’ve been here.
“The coaches have looked after me and taught me so much, my teammates have always had my back and the members and fans have been so good to me, so I hope to be able to help repay that before I move.”
