Dawson Devoy insists that to take his career to the next level he had to leave Bohemians for MK Dons.
Devoy, an Ireland under-21 international, rejected a move to the League One club at the start of this year.
But the parties agreed terms this week and the talented midfielder from Ashbourne has left Dalymount Park.
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Having made his Bohs debut three years ago, Devoy has become an established figure for the Gypsies.
But he believes it is the right move to sign for MK Dons, who have former Bohs starlet Warren O'Hora on their books and recently snapped up Darragh Burns from St Pat's.
Troy Parrott spent last season on loan at the club as promotion to the Championship was missed out on through the play-offs.
"I’m delighted to be here,” reacted 20-year-old Devoy, who has signed a long-term deal for an undisclosed sum.
“It’s been a long time coming but I’m happy to get the deal done and I am looking forward to getting started.
“I enjoyed my time at Bohs but if I want to take my career to the next level, this is the right move for me.
"Everyone I spoke to about here said how it’s a really good, family club and I have seen that myself already.
“I can’t wait to get going here in England. The stadium is unbelievable and I can’t ask for a better place to play.
"It’s a good group here and one that looks like it's going places – I can’t get wait to get going.”
MK Dons boss Liam Manning suggested that it could take Devoy some time to get up to speed and there are reports that he could be loaned out initially.
“There will be a period of transition as he moves away from Ireland and settles here in England," said Manning.
"But he will have the support of the staff and his teammates throughout that process."
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