Good news to Tottenham fans as Postecoglou signs Celtic transfer target in record Spurs deal
Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has successfully pulled off a record-breaking transfer, securing the signature of Mason Melia, a rising star in Irish football who had also been on Celtic’s radar.
Spurs have agreed to pay a record transfer fee for a League of Ireland player, finalizing a deal with St Patrick’s Athletic that will see Melia officially join the North London club on January 1, 2026. The move marks a significant investment in youth talent for Tottenham as they continue their long-term squad-building strategy.
Celtic Interest and Tottenham’s Persistence
Melia, who will turn 18 in September, only recently emerged as a transfer target for Celtic, with the Scottish club reportedly keeping a close eye on his development. However, despite their interest, it was Tottenham who acted decisively to bring the forward to England.
Initially, St Pat’s rejected Spurs’ £1 million bid, indicating their reluctance to part ways with their prized asset too soon. However, Postecoglou’s side remained persistent, and during the final days of the transfer window, they reached an agreement on a five-year contract for Melia, ensuring he would eventually make the move to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Melia’s Rising Star in Irish Football
Despite his young age, Melia has already made history with St Pat’s, becoming both their youngest-ever debutant and goalscorer—records he broke twice as a 15-year-old. His rapid rise has seen him score 10 goals in 54 senior appearances, showcasing his ability to compete at a high level despite his inexperience.
His performances did not go unnoticed at the international level either. In October, he received his first call-up to the Republic of Ireland Under-21 squad, a testament to his growing reputation as one of the country’s most promising footballers.
Official Confirmation and Future Plans
St Patrick’s Athletic officially confirmed the transfer, describing it as a record-breaking deal for an Irish club:
“St Patrick’s Athletic can confirm we have agreed the transfer of Mason Melia to Tottenham Hotspur for an undisclosed fee, which is a record transfer fee for a League of Ireland player.”
The Irish club also clarified that Melia will remain at Richmond Park for the duration of the 2025 League of Ireland season before making his highly anticipated move to Spurs in January 2026.
A Statement Signing for Tottenham
Melia’s transfer reflects Tottenham’s continued commitment to scouting and investing in young talents with long-term potential. Under Postecoglou’s leadership, Spurs have been reshaping their squad with a mix of experienced players and promising youngsters, ensuring the club remains competitive in both domestic and European competitions.
With his prolific record at such a young age, Melia will be one to watch as he continues his development in Ireland before making the step up to the Premier League.
