It has been refreshing to see young Irish players make the move to the continent in recent times.
Whereas it was previously expected that the brightest young talents in this country would begin their professional career in English football, many are now looking slightly further afield. Cathal Heffernan and Kevin Zefi are two well-known examples, with that pair moving to AC Milan and Inter Milan respectively.
We are likely to see more players follow suit in the near future, especially as European clubs begin to view Irish football as somewhat of an untapped resource of talent.
While he may not be currently based in Ireland, one name to keep an eye on is Rocco Vata.
Rocco Vata linked with Europe's biggest clubs
A hugely exciting attacking player, Rocco Vata has come through the youth ranks at Celtic. Born in Glasgow and the son of former Hoops and Albania defender Rudi Vata, the 17-year old signed his first professional contract with the club.
While he may have been born in Scotland and have an Albanian father, Vata has opted to represent Ireland at international level. He qualifies for the country via his Dublin-born grandmother on his mother's side.
Making his debut for the Irish U15 side a few years back, he has since been capped up to U19 level.
Rocco Vata's goal last night💚 pic.twitter.com/9cG2LloyCB
— AnnFrances Murray (@AnnFrancesMurr3) December 11, 2021
Now, he is drawing the attentions of some of the biggest clubs in Europe.
Italian outlet Tuttomercato are reporting that the Serie A sides AC Milan, Juventus, and Roma are all interested in signing him in the near future. It is suggested that Manchester City and Arsenal are also in the race for his signature.
While Celtic are said to be keen to keep him at Parkhead, they could be willing to move him on should a big offer come in. It is claimed that they would consider an offer of £2million, a huge amount of money for a player who has yet to make his first team debut.
Rocco Vata was with the Celtic senior side during pre-season, although Ange Postecoglou does not view him as a first team player just yet. That breakthrough seems to be coming soon and it could well be needed if they are to convince him to stay in Scotland.
He certainly looks to have a very bright future ahead.
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