IN ONE of the most unlikely transfers you can expect to see anytime soon, a Beith Juniors striker has left the club for a move to Dubai.

Josh Fowler, one of the stars of the West of Scotland Football League last season, has departed the Premier Division winners for Gulf United who are based in the UAE city.

His now former club confirmed the transfer this afternoon (Sunday July 30) as they thanked the 21-year-old for "a fantastic two-year spell".

A statement said: "Beith Juniors can confirm that we have reached an agreement with Dubai-based Gulf United for the immediate transfer of forward, Josh Fowler.

"Josh joined the Club in July 2021 and has had a fantastic two year spell at The Mighty, scoring 49 goals in 78 Appearances including 32 goals as we won last Season's WoSFL Premier Division."

Fowler had recently been allowed by the club to trial with Scottish Premiership sides Motherwell and Kilmarnock during pre-season.

They added: "The club made it clear that we wouldn't stand in his way if the right move came up."

And when the possibility of playing in Dubai arose, it was an opportunity that was too good for the youngster to turn down.

The club statement explained: "Josh intimated that his heart was set on a move to Dubai that will be life changing and we are pleased that an agreement has been reached to allow him to pursue that.

"Josh, thank you for your efforts at the club and for the moments we shared together last season.

"Everyone at he Club wishes you every success with your future career and hope to see you continue to move on to bigger and better things - go smash it."

While the departing striker, who won Beith's Players' Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards last year, also thanked the club following his spell in North Ayrshire.

He said: "I want to thank everyone at beith for the last two years it's been an absolute pleasure, I wish yous all the very best for the season ahead and hopefully can bring more silverware back to Bellsdale."

The striker's departure will leave a big hole in the Beith Juniors squad for manager Chris Strain to fill as his side bid to retain their WoSFL Premier Division title.

Though they will be pleased with the start that new signing Ciaran Diver made after he made his competitive debut on the first game of the season against Rob Roy yesterday.

The summer arrival, who joined after a 30-goal season with Renfrew FC, scored the only goal of the game as the champions started off their season with three points and 1-0 win.