EXETER CITY’S 16-year-old superkid Ben Chrisene has snubbed Bayern Munich to sign for Aston Villa.
The England youth midfielder impressed Bayern’s coaches when he played for the German side’s youth team last season.
Exeter City superkid Ben Chrisene has snubbed Bayern Munich to sign for Aston VillaCredit: Rex Features
He was also courted by reigning Euro champs Liverpool who invited him to a Champions League match last season as Jurgen Klopp’s VIP guest, while Frank Lampard personally called him to express Chelsea’s interest.
However, Villa are hugely ambitious at academy level and managed to persuade Chrisene to team up with Barcelona wonder-kid Louie Barry, who they paid £3million to lure away from the Nou Camp last season.
It’s understood Chrisene will cost around half that amount with Villa agreeing to some lucrative add-ons for the youngster who recently turned down the offer of a full-time pro contract with the Devon club.
He became the Grecians’ youngest ever player last August when he came on against Coventry in the Carabao Cup, aged 15-years, seven months.
That was three months quicker than Exeter’s previous record holder Ethan Ampadu who went on to sign for Chelsea and star for Wales.
“Ben goes with our best wishes,” said Grecians’ boss Matt Taylor.
“He has gone to a Premier League club, which we are delighted about.
“However, it is a shame that we are losing our players before we get the chance to really work with them.”
Villa academy manager Mark Harrison, said: “I would like to thank the owners, the Board and the CEO for their support in bringing talent like Ben’s to Aston Villa.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
