EFL League Two transfer fee agreed as record-breaking Irish League academy graduate joins Crawley Town
Glentoran have confirmed the transfer of Jonny Russell from the Irish League club to Crawley Town “for an undisclosed fee”.
The Northern Ireland under 21 international has completed his permanent transfer after 80 first-team Glens appearances.
Russell joined the Glentoran Academy as a 10-year-old, signing his first professional contract in November 2023.
He departs the BetMcLean Oval outfit with two goals and 14 appearances across the current campaign, having set a club record at 19 as the youngest ‘Player of the Year’ winner in Glens history for the 2023/24 season.
“Coming through the Academy and playing for Glentoran’s first team is something I’m incredibly proud of and a dream come true,” said Russell. “This club has been a huge part of my life from a young age and has played a massive role in my development, both as a player and as a person.
“This move to Crawley Town is an exciting opportunity for me and gives me the chance to experience the English Football League and continue pushing myself at a new level.
“I want to thank the manager, the coaching staff, my teammates, the supporters and all the Academy coaches who have helped me along the way during my time at Glentoran.
“Glentoran will always mean a lot to me and I’ll be following the club closely.
"I wish everyone at the club all the very best for the rest of the season and beyond.”
A statement highlighted “Glentoran Football Club would like to thank Jonny for his commitment and contribution as an Academy graduate and first-team player and wish him every success for the future”.
“Jonny is a player we’re extremely proud of as an Academy graduate who has come through the system and earned his place in senior football at Glentoran,” said Glentoran boss Declan Devine. “His progression is a real reflection of the hard work being done within our Academy and the pathway we have in place.
“He has shown great professionalism throughout his time at the club and has always approached his role in the right way.
"Jonny spoke to me about his desire to continue his development in the English Football League and we respected that ambition.
“This move represents a good opportunity for Jonny and is also a positive piece of business for the club.
"He’s a great lad with an excellent attitude and we wish him every success as he takes this next step in his career.”