Cork City snap up Finn Harps striker Hans Mpongo for an undisclosed fee

Hans Mpongo has left Finn Harps in favour of joining fellow First Division side Cork City for an undisclosed fee.

The Dutch striker ended the season as the club's top scorer, despite only joining in July, as he netted eight times in 15 games.

He made an immediate impact at Finn Park, scoring on his debut in the FAI Cup in a win over UCD, while he also netted on his league debut against Cobh Ramblers in a 2-2 home draw.

The 22-year-old then went on a run of scoring four games in a row, in a run of three wins and a draw as the club climbed towards the play-offs and advanced in the FAI Cup, where they were put out by his new club, Cork City, in a 3-0 defeat at Finn Park in the last eight.

Speaking after signing for the newly relegated Cork City, Mpongo said: “I am really, really happy. I’m really excited, and I honestly can’t wait to get started. Cork City is a huge club with a huge fanbase, and I really can’t wait to play in front of the fans and to do well for the team.”

“My goal is to continue on the form I had at Finn Harps, and with every ability I have within myself, bring that to this team to help get the club back where it belongs.”

Cork City boss Ger Nash welcomed his new arrival, saying: “I’m really pleased to have Hans on board ahead of the new season.

“He’s a player that we have been watching for a while, since we were impressed by him in the build-up to when he featured against us last season. We identified Hans as someone that we wanted to recruit, and I am very thankful to the owner for his backing and agreeing a deal to get him here. 

“He is a good age, has League of Ireland experience, & has signed a two year deal at the club, which protects us too, something important for the club’s future.

“He trained with the squad today and is integrating well, so we’re looking forward to seeing more of him as we continue our pre-season preparations.”