Olympian Rob Heffernan 'so proud' as son Cathal (16) signs deal with AC Milan

The 16-year-old has made history as the first Irish person to sign with the club in over 70 years since Armagh legend Paddy Sloan.

The Cork City teenager is expected to sign a permanent deal in the summer, having been on trial at the San Siro club in 2021.

Cathal is the son of Irish Olympian parents, relay athlete Marian and race walker Rob Heffernan, who took to social media to congratulate their son on his incredible deal.

Sharing a photo of the trio with former footballer Stephen Ireland, proud dad Rob wrote: “Finally it's official. So proud of you Cathal this is only the beginning. Now it’s time to work.”

The footballer was quickly congratulated by a host of famous faces, including fellow Cork athlete Anna Geary, who wrote: “Wow wow wow, huge congrats Cathal xx."

Comedian Jarlath Regan said: “Congratulations @cathal.heffernan you little legend.”

Westlife singer Nicky Byrne also passed on his congratulations, saying: “Wow! Amazing.”

And Conor McGregor’s sister Erin added: “@robert.heffernan omg guys this is amazing️. @marianheffernan82, I’m delighted for u guys. x

Cathal also shared his delight about his new venture on his Instagram account, thanking his friends and family for all their support.

“Words can’t describe how happy I am with this move to @acmilan,” the defender said.

“Can’t wait to get started and I’d like to thank all my family especially @marianheffernan82 @robert.heffernan @stevestagram17 @angelaandrews51 ye have helped me soo much to get me to this point.

“Lastly I really want to thank @sire_7_ and @supermanireland7 because without you none of this would of happened and I am soo great full of this opportunity you have given me. #forzamilan”