Ireland youngster makes big move to France’s Ligue 1

"His powerful and dynamic profile fits perfectly into our sporting project."

It was not only his eye-catching name that made him stand out, but his skills on the football field as well, which led the midfielder to become the youngest player ever to line out for Getafe, at the age of 17 years and 42 days.

The 21-year-old was born and bred in Spain, with a French-Cameroonian mother and a father from Ballyhaunis in Mayo.

Thankfully at an international level, he has togged out for Ireland Under-19s twice against Sweden back in 2021.

Off the crossbar AND post! 🤯

John Joe Patrick Finn very nearly pulls one back for Getafe against Real Madrid 🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/veGsxS0QdO

— Premier Sports (@PremSportsTV) December 1, 2024

He has struggled for game time with Getafe this season - although he almost scored a beauty against Real Madrid last month - with just four La Liga appearances and two in the Copa del Rey.

But French side Stade de Reims - who sit in 12th place Ligue 1 - like the look of him and have paid around €1 million for his signature.

Given Ireland's struggles for midfielders, Finn could be looking at a senior call-up in the near future if he can cement a place in his new team.

Reims' Sporting director Pol-Edouard Caillot said:"His powerful and dynamic profile fits perfectly into our sporting project.

“With his technical qualities and the energy he gives off on the pitch, he will strengthen our midfield.”

Finn joins fellow Irishman and former Shamrock Rovers player Ike Orazi on their books.

The 17-year-old has yet to make his senior debut for the club but was on the bench against Nice last Saturday.