Johnson has signed for the Lilywhites ahead of their league opener against Shamrock Rovers on Friday night.
The 19-year-old central defender is Stephen O’Donnell’s 11th new addition this offseason. Johnson is also the club’s fourth loan signing.
The Englishman began his professional career with his parent club, Sunderland, and signed his first contract in 2022. He became the Championship’s youngest outfield player in 50 years.
Johnson represented England at the Under-18 level, captaining the team in a tournament in Portugal last summer.
The teenage defender most recently spent six months on loan with Hartlepool United, where he made 12 National League appearances.
“When Sunderland agreed that I should go and get some minutes elsewhere, I set up a Zoom call with the gaffer here and Brian Gartland and I was hooked straight away” Johnson said in regards to the move.
“I know for my development that I need to play first-team football and I think this will be a great opportunity for me to take a big step forward in my career.”
Dundalk manager Stephen O’Donnell stated, “Zak has already had first-team experience this season with Hartlepool, and he captained England U18s last summer, which is a fantastic achievement given the wealth of talent at underage level.”
“Physically, he is a big specimen and he has a good personality and we are looking forward to having him in the group.”
Dundalk confirmed another signing yesterday, with the league season starting this weekend.
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