GAWLER Eagles Lachlan Brook and Riley McGree have both penned transfer deals earlier this week that will see the locals jetting off to take their talents to overseas leagues.
McGree, 21, won Adelaide United’s Aurelio Vidmar Club Champion award, as well as the A-League’s Young Footballer of the Year in a season in which he scored 10 goals and notched five assists in 23 games.
He signed with Charlotte FC – an expansion team in the USA’s Major League Soccer – for an undisclosed fee in a deal that will see him immediately loaned to Birmingham City in England until Charlotte is set to first take the field in 2022.
“I can’t thank Adelaide United enough,” McGree said.
“I was welcomed back home with open arms and the club have supported my ambition from the start.
“It was disappointing not to make finals after we did so well after the COVID break, but I have no doubt the club is moving in the right direction.
“For me, my goal has always been to push myself and my football, and to have the chance to head overseas and to be doing that is very exciting.
“Adelaide will always be my home and I wish the boys and the club the best for the future.”
Adelaide United director of football Bruce Djite said this move was a matter of when, not if.
“On the day we announced (the signing of) Riley, I said ‘I hope he finds his way back overseas’ and today I’m glad he has his chance again,” he said.
“Riley had an outstanding season last year and has been rightfully rewarded for his hard work and performances.
“It is always difficult when one of the club’s best talents departs, and Riley will be very difficult to replace.”
Brook, 19, became the third youngest Adelaide United debutant in club history in 2017, and now he is on his way to English Championship side Brentford FC for an undisclosed fee.
“Adelaide United has been a huge part of my footballing journey and development,” he said.
“I achieved a lifelong goal when I got to represent my hometown club and play for the team I grew up supporting.
“Playing overseas, especially in Europe, has always been a personal ambition of mine, so this really is another dream come true for me and an incredible opportunity.”