Ligue 2 side Guingamp have secured the signing of young Nigerian striker Brown Irabor.
This move marks a significant jump for the 20-year-old, who departs Bourg-en-Bresse Peronnas of the Championnat National 2 (fourth tier) for a shot at the French second division.
The transfer comes after Guingamp saw attacking options Amine El Ouazzani and Baptiste Guillaume depart the club.
Irabor arrives with the hope of bolstering their attacking force. Though courted by a few clubs in Belgium like Standard Liege and Cercle Brugge, it was the Ligue 2 club that finally won the race for his signature.
Late bloomer set to take Ligue 2 by storm
Irabor's journey to professional football is unique. Born in France to Nigerian parents, he honed his skills playing on the streets before being scouted by Viriat in 2022, a relatively late start compared to many professional footballers.
Despite this, his natural talent shone through.
After a successful season with Viriat, he moved to Bourg-en-Bresse Peronnas' U-19 team. His impressive performances there earned him a promotion to the senior squad just a season later.
The 2023/24 season proved to be a breakout year for Irabor. He bagged an impressive 12 goals in 25 appearances for Bourg-en-Bresse Peronnas, attracting the attention of several clubs in France.
En Avant Guingamp secured his signature on a free transfer, offering him a two-year contract. This move represents a major step up for the young striker and a chance to showcase his talent on a bigger stage.
Last season, Guingamp finished in 9th place in Ligue 2, with 51 points from 38 games, and will hope Irabor's impressive fourth-tier goal return can translate and propel them to Ligue 1 in the upcoming season.
