BBC SPORT | NORTHERN IRELAND | Dunne signs for Man City

Manchester City clinched a deal to sign Everton and Republic of Ireland defender Richard Dunne on Monday - one hour after releasing their former world player of the year George Weah.

City boss Joe Royle has agreed a �3million fee for the 21-year-old Dunne, who will travel to Maine Road to discuss personal terms on Tuesday.

City's signing of the highly-rated youngster - handed his Everton debut by Royle during his tenure at Goodison Park - off-set the blow of Weah's walk-out.

Dunne's move is certain to delight Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy.

The Irish boss urged Dunne to seek a move away from Everton recently so that the centre-half could obtain more first team football.

Frustrated substitute

Liberian Weah has been a frustrated substitute for much of the season since Royle's audacious summer swoop after the striker was released by AC Milan.

Weah made his debut in a blaze of publicity at Charlton on the opening day of the season and despite his restricted opportunity he is still the club's joint-top scorer with four goals.

Mick McCarthy: urged Dunne to seek move

"It is not a situation I thought would arise, however, having spoken to Joe Royle, we have amicably agreed it would be best for both parties to terminate my contract. I will review my own situation at a later date."

Royle met 34-year-old Weah and his advisers on Monday in a last minute bid to persuade the player to change his mind.

Always regretful

But Weah, angry at being a non-playing substitute during Saturday's 2-0 win over Bradford, had made up his mind.

Royle said: "It is always regretful when things do not work out between club and player.

"George is a true professional who has a great stature throughout European football. We wish him well."

Manchester City issued a statement in which said Weah would be travelling immediately to America on official business for UNICEF and FIFA.


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