Former AC Milan and Newcastle United defender joins Cambridge United

Cambridge United have announced the signing of centre back Cathal Heffernan from Harrogate Town. Heffernan came through at boyhood club Cork City before joining AC Milan's youth team. After appearances in the Under-18 and Under-19s, the Irishman moved to Newcastle United to develop further. The 21-year-old now joins former teammate Kell Watts in the United back line on a four-year deal.

Harrogate experience

The young centre-back was then sold to Harrogate in January 2026, making 24 appearances and scoring one goal. Despite the relegation faced last season, Heffernan caught the eye of Bonner and Harris, who have now brought the youngster into the ranks.

Harris on signing Heffernan

"I’d like to welcome Cathal to the football club. We’ve monitored his progress since his time with Newcastle’s Under-21s and watched him develop significantly prior to joining Harrogate. He really shone through during a testing period for Harrogate last season, and we were thoroughly impressed when we came up against him. Cathal can come straight in and impact the starting XI, but he also has the long-term ambition to grow alongside us. Given the strides our defensive unit has made over the last 18 months, we’re excited to work closely with Cathal and help him reach his potential."

Heffernan "delighted" to put pen to paper

“I am delighted. It was a no-brainer to me when I found out that Cambridge were interested. All my experiences have helped me gear up to this moment - I am relishing the challenge and really excited to get started.”

The centre back will inherit the no.15 shirt.