League of Ireland Transfers: St. Patrick’s Athletic Secure New Zealand Striker, Derry City & Galway United Also Make Moves
A flurry of activity in the League of Ireland sees St. Patrick’s Athletic bolstering their attack, while Derry City and Galway United reshape their squads ahead of the new season. These moves signal aspiring intentions from all three clubs as they prepare for a competitive year.
St. patrick’s Athletic Land International Striker max Mata
St. Patrick’s Athletic have moved swiftly to replace Tottenham-bound Mason Melia with the signing of New Zealand international Max Mata. The 25-year-old striker joins the Saints having most recently played for auckland FC, where he was part of a championship-winning team in the Australian A league.
Mata brings a wealth of experience to Richmond Park, having also played professionally in New Zealand, America, Switzerland, Estonia, and England. He previously enjoyed an 18-month spell with Sligo Rovers from Febuary 2022 to August 2023, with a further loan spell at Sheffield United. He is currently recovering from a recent injury.
“He will be highly motivated to make a big contribution here at St patrick’s Athletic to be in the World Cup conversation.”
Derry City Strengthen Defense with Rob Slevin Acquisition
Further north, Derry City have added depth to their squad with the signing of Rob Slevin from galway United. The 27-year-old defender joins the Candystripes after three seasons with the Tribesmen and represents City’s second signing in recent weeks, following the arrival of Darragh markey from drogheda United.
slevin,a Cork native,previously played for Waterford and Finn Harps before establishing himself as a key performer for Galway United following their promotion two seasons ago. Primarily a left-sided center-half,he is also capable of playing at left-back.
“I’m realy happy to get it done,” Slevin said. “I know what Tiernan’s building here and I’m happy to be a part of it. I’m really looking forward to getting started and think it’s going to be a good challenge.”
City boss Tiernan Lynch emphasized the importance of bringing players with the right attitude to the club. “This club’s all about honesty and hard work, and it’s vital we give the fans what they want – hunger, desire, and drive. Rob gives us all of that.” Lynch is reshaping his back line following the departures of Sam Todd, who has joined Bohemians, and Mark Connolly, who was not offered a new contract.
Galway United Re-Sign Canadian International Kris twardek
Meanwhile, Galway United have secured the return of former Canadian international Kris Twardek. The winger previously spent four seasons with Bohemians and Sligo Rovers before a stint with Valour FC, which recently folded, making him a free agent.
Manager John Caulfield expressed his delight at the signing. “I’m thrilled to have signed Kris. I’ve had lots of conversations with him over the last number of months and was always an admirer of him when he played with Bohs and Sligo. His enthusiasm is infectious, and our fans will be excited by his direct running, explosiveness, and style of play.” Caulfield believes Twardek’s creativity will be a valuable asset as Galway United look to excite their fans at Eamonn Deacy Park.
The league of Ireland season is poised to be a captivating one, with these recent transfer moves indicating a commitment to quality and ambition from several key clubs.
Fans can watch the draw for the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Friday from 5pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player. A live blog will also be available on the RTÉ News App and on rte.ie/sport.
