Burnley midfielder joins Melbourne City

The 22-year-old signed a new one-year contract at Turf Moor last summer, before joining hometown club Brisbane Roar on loan, where he linked up with Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler, who was head coach.

O’Neill played youth football for Brisbane Athletic before being snapped up by Burnley in 2014.

The previous season he spent on loan with the Central Coast Mariners – where he was crowned Player of the Year – after previously having loan stints at Fleetwood Town and Oldham Athletic.

City are owned by the City Football Group, and City director of football Michael Petrillo said: “We have been following Aiden’s career path closely and believe he is one of Australia’s best young midfield prospects.”

The Australia Under 23 international made his Burnley debut in August 2016 as a substitute in the 2-0 win over Liverpool at Turf Moor, and started in the League Cup defeat at Accrington Stanley, while also featuring against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

He made five appearances in total, before being sent out on loan to Oldham on deadline day in January 2017.

He had another spell at Fleetwood from the start of the 2017/18 season, returning in January after 27 appearances.

He made 23 A-League appearances for Central Coast and 17 at Brisbane Roar.

O’Neill said: “I’m excited to be joining Melbourne City and can’t wait to get started in October” O’Neill said.

“The club plays an exciting and attacking style of football and I’m looking forward to pushing myself in an elite environment at the City Football Academy.

“Signing for the next three seasons shows my commitment to the club and I’m ready to establish myself in one of the strongest midfields in the league.”