Wing-back Neil Farrugia – who once turned down the chance to join Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City – has joined Dundee United from Barnsley on a contract until summer 2028.
United manager Jim Goodwin says the 26-year-old adds “vast experience” to the Tannadice side.
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Paris-born Republic of Ireland youth international Farrugia began his career with UCD where his form led to a trial at Man City, but he rejected a permanent deal to focus on completing his degree in biomedical science.
He subsequently joined Shamrock Rovers in summer 2019, going on to make 136 appearances, scoring 12 goals.
Last January he made the switch to English League One Barnsley where he played 30 games, scored once and provided three assists.
Faruggia has been called up to the senior Ireland squad but is yet to make his debut.
“Neil is a player who fits our tactical framework extremely well and adds depth and quality in key areas we have been looking to strengthen,” manager Goodwin said.
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“Defensively, Neil is disciplined and intelligent in his positioning. He recovers quickly in transition and is comfortable defending in one-versus-one scenarios – that balance between attacking intent and defensive responsibility is imperative to our style of football.
“He also brings vast experience from different environments, having played almost 200 senior games back home in Ireland under the demands of consistent success, featured regularly in high-profile European competition and tested himself down south throughout the past year.
“At 26, he is at an age where he understands the game well but still has scope to improve within our structure.”