Sydney FC have confirmed rising star Alex Gersbach is headed to Europe with the defender to join Norwegian champions Rosenborg BK.
The Sky Blues issued a release on Sunday night confirming the Olyroo left back was leaving Moore Park to pursue his dream of playing in Europe.
Hyundai A-League transfer window wrap
The 18-year-old will depart on Monday and is expected to undergo a medical on Tuesday before signing for the Tippeligaen club for an undisclosed fee.
Sky Blues Head Coach Graham Arnold expressed his disappointment at losing the left back but wished Gersbach well for his future career.
“We would have loved to have kept him for another year but it’s a great opportunity for him and I wish him the very best for the future,” said Arnold.
The Sky Blues have cover in the left back department with Rhyan Grant, Ali Abbas and Riley Woodcock still challenging for the position when they face Adelaide United on Friday night.
Gersbach, whose Sydney FC contract was up at the end of the Hyundai A-League season and was November’s nominee for the NAB Young Player of the Year award, thanked the club and says he will always remain a Sydney FC fan.
“I’d like to thank everyone at Sydney FC for the opportunity I have had to develop my career and for the experiences I’ve had playing Hyundai A-League football,” said Gersbach.
“The chances I’ve been given at Sydney FC have undoubtedly helped me improve as a player and presented me with this wonderful opportunity which lies ahead. I am very grateful for that.
“I’ve had a great two years with an exceptional group of players and coaching and medical staff, and it has been an honour to represent this club and its fantastic supporters.
“I am hugely excited about the next stage in my career and i wish the club every success in the future. I will always be a Sydney FC supporter at heart.”
Gersbach will begin training with his new club in time for the start of the new Norwegian season on March 12 and will be available when Rosenborg BK start qualification for the the UEFA Champions League in July 2016.
