Dundalk Strengthen Survival Bid with Signing of Young Midfielder from Shelbourne
Dundalk manager Jon Daly has bolstered his squad with the signing of attacking midfielder Jad Hakiki from Premier Division leaders Shelbourne. This marks Dundalk’s third signing of the summer transfer window, following the arrivals of Scottish midfielder Scott McGuill and New Zealand winger Norman Garbett.
Hakiki, who just turned 20, joins Dundalk on a permanent deal shortly after featuring off the bench in Shelbourne’s 2-0 win over Galway United. The former Ireland Under-18 international has made 40 first-team appearances for Damien Duff’s side, including six league appearances this season.
“When Jon Daly spoke to me, I was keen to come here straight away,” said Hakiki. “He told me how he sees me playing here, which I liked. Since he’s come in at Dundalk, results have been going well and things are moving forward. I want to be a part of that.”
Hakiki is eager to make an impact at Dundalk. “I feel this is a chance for me to improve myself and play regularly, which is what I want to do at Dundalk. I hope I can entertain the fans here. I want to create chances, score goals, and provide assists, and hopefully, the fans take a liking to me.”
After his first training session with his new teammates, Hakiki expressed his excitement. “The lads have all been great. They have been welcoming and friendly, which is what you want from a group. I’m delighted to be here and I’m just looking forward to playing now.”