LOI transfers: Drogheda make second US move in Bucknor
Drogheda United have signed American wing-back Jason Bucknor ahead of the new SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division season.
The 23-year-old signed with the LA Galaxy for the 2025 season after being selected 20th overall in the first round of the MLS SuperDraft out of the University of Michigan.
Bucknor made 27 appearances across all competitions for MLS Next Pro League side Ventura County, the affiliate club of LA Galaxy, in 2025.
During his time with the University of Michigan, Bucknor was named to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team in 2021 and was selected to the Big Ten All-Tournament team twice while helping Michigan qualify for the NCAA tournament in 2024.
Bucknor is a product of the Inter Miami Academy, having played 13 matches for Inter Miami/Fort Lauderdale CF in USL League One.
United manager Kevin Doherty feels Bucknor will be a major addition to his squad:
"When I first watched Jason, I got really excited. He’s a strong attacking option for us on both sides, whilst also being excellent defensively.
"He is predominantly a right sided player but has played a lot of games on the left and can play in a number of different roles.
"He’s a player I think the supporters should be excited about. He’s strong physically, has excellent athletic ability, and contributes to goals.
"We had a number of conversations with him before joining us, and I’m really looking forward to having him join the group."
Bucknor has targeted trophies at Sullivan & Lambe Park.
"It’s an honour to sign with Drogheda United, and I can’t wait to integrate with the team.
"I’m excited to bring joy to the fans with my style of play and to help win many games as we fight for trophies together."
It's the second move Drogheda have made in the US market after defender Leo Burney joined on Saturday.
Burney had a similar development to Bucknor, joining Seattle Sounders for the 2025 season and making 19 appearances in all competitions for MLS Next Pro side Tacoma Defiance.
Elsewhere Northern Ireland Under-21 international Eoin Kenny has opted to stay with Dundalk for their return to the Premier Division.
Kenny, son of former Republic of Ireland and current St Patrick’s Athletic boss Stephen, has been linked with a move to the UK.
Despite just recently turning 20, the striker already has 70 appearances and scored 14 goal, including 10 in the First Division last season.
