Cork hurling sensation Setanta Ó hAilpín is poised to accept a contract offer from Australian Rules side Carlton and ply his trade as a professional sportsman Down Under.
The 20-year-old has been training with the Melbourne club in recent days. He met with Carlton officials today and reports suggest a two-year deal is being discussed.
News broke over the weekend of a possible move when the Na Piarsaigh clubman missed Friday night's 2003 All Star award banquet at Dublin's City West Hotel. Ó hAilpín was also named hurling's Young Player of the Year on the night.
A number of players, including Armagh's Steven McDonnell, Cork's Graham Canty and Offaly star Ciaran McManus, have also been linked with moves to Australian clubs, but these reports appear unfounded.
