Nando Pijnaker of New Zealand in action against Egypt, 2024. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
All White Nando Pijnaker has left Irish club Sligo Rovers to continue his career closer to home.
The 25-year-old defender is reportedly the ninth All White to join Auckland FC for the upcoming A-League season.
Pijnaker played 84 times for the Rovers after first joining the Ireland Premier Division side in 2022 on loan from Portuguese side Rio Ave.
Rovers said Pijnaker had established himself as one of the league's top defenders and had attracted the interest of clubs from across the world.
"Every transfer window, there's been interest in Nando. We turned down bids in the past and even last January he was close to leaving, but we persuaded him to stay on," Rovers boss John Russell said.
"We had an agreement with Nando that if the right move came for him, we would not stand in his way. He has an opportunity now to play at a club closer to where he is from and I and the club have kept our word in regard to that."
Rovers said a fee had been agreed with his new club.
Pijnaker was born in the Netherlands, grew up in Rotorua and developed his football with Wellington's Olé Football Academy as a teenager.
Auckland FC now have 22 players on their books, including fellow All Whites Michael Woud, Alex Paulsen, Cam Howieson, Tommy Smith, Max Mata, Francis De Vries, Joey Champness and Logan Rogerson.
Coach Steve Corica said Pijnaker would be a "fantastic" player for Auckland.
"He's technically very good and is very strong in the air which means he is a threat both defensively and also in attack.
"He's a natural leader and I'm confident he will fit right in alongside his All White teammates and the rest of the group. He's going to be a real asset for us both, on the pitch and in the dressing room."
Pijnaker broke his ribs in February which prematurely ended his season after 16 games with Rovers, but now fully fit he was eager to get playing again.
"I'm delighted to be coming back to NZ, Steve has shared his ambitions for the club and it's an exciting time for football in Auckland," Pijanker said.
"I can't wait to meet up again with the boys, there are some familiar faces already there and everyone has told me that Steve and the team are building a great squad.
"I've played all over Europe, but New Zealand is home, do my bit to help to grow the club and play in front of our home fans is a massive opportunity."
The A-League season kicks off next month.