Josh Harpur has left boyhood club Bohemian to join Cesc Fabregas’ Como, ending his early development in the League of Ireland and beginning a new chapter in Italy.
The 17-year-old forward made his first-team debut for Bohemian as a 15-year-old, appearing in an FAI Cup tie against Killester-Donnycarney in July of last year.
Harpur made his League of Ireland debut earlier this season. He came on as a substitute and played the final four minutes of Bohemian’s 1-1 draw with Derry City.
His departure was confirmed by Bohemian manager Alan Reynolds, who praised the teenager’s ability, attitude and potential as he prepares to continue his career with Como.
“Josh is a really exciting young striker. He has a brilliant attitude, and I’m confident he will go on to have a really good career.
“You don’t want to put too much pressure on a 17-year-old but he has serious potential to push on. He’s a brilliant striker for his age, scores goals and holds up the ball well.
“He’s really hungry to do well and if he maintains that, and continues to progress and learn in the way he has been, he will do very well. We wish him the very best of luck.”
Harpur’s move comes after a brief but notable introduction to senior football with Bohemian. His first appearance for the club’s first team came while he was still 15, when he featured in the FAI Cup meeting with Killester-Donnycarney.
He then added a League of Ireland appearance this season, entering the match against Derry City from the bench for the closing stages. The game finished 1-1, giving Harpur his first experience of league football at senior level.
Reynolds highlighted the qualities that have helped Harpur make that progression. As well as describing him as a promising striker, the Bohemian manager pointed to his goalscoring ability and his capacity to hold the ball up despite his young age.
The manager also said Harpur’s desire to improve would be important as he takes on the next stage of his development. Reynolds expressed confidence that the youngster can continue to progress if he maintains the same approach and keeps learning.
Harpur will now link up with Como, the club managed by former Spain international Cesc Fabregas. His move takes him away from the club he supported and represented from a young age, after he had made his first senior appearances for Bohemian.
The teenager leaves with Reynolds’ best wishes and with the manager convinced that he has the potential to build a successful career.