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Stoke City swoop for AFC Wimbledon defender Ryan Sweeney

Stoke City have announced the signing of AFC Wimbledon defender Ryan Sweeney for an undisclosed fee.

The 19-year-old, who came through the Dons' academy, has penned a three-year deal with Mark Hughes' side.

Central defender Sweeney made 10 appearances for Wimbledon last term as they won promotion to League One via the playoffs.

The Republic of Ireland youth international thanked the Dons following his departure.

He told the League One club's official website: "Thank you to all the fans for your support and to the manager Neal Ardley for giving me my chance in football, I couldn't thank him enough."