Aston Villa surpasses Newcastle after agreeing to a record price for a 14-year-old

Aston Villa surpasses Newcastle after agreeing to a record price for a 14-year-old

Aston Villa are close to completing the record signing of Freddie Lawrie after Port Vale accepted their offer, sources have…

As a result of Port Vale accepting their offer, sources have told Football Insider that Aston Villa is close to finalising the record-breaking acquisition of Freddie Lawrie.

The Midlands giants are expected to spend a high six-figure sum for the rising star in central midfield.

The price is higher than what Newcastle paid Port Vale for Michael Mills and sets a British record for a schoolboy player under the age of 14.

After a lengthy trial period with the St James’ Park club, Mills signed a contract with the Magpies last month.

But Lawrie has drawn interest from several Premier League teams as a result of his outstanding junior exploits, and he is now poised to make a historic switch to the top division.

By succeeding at the club, he will be attempting to follow in the footsteps of several current and previous Villa players.

Academy alums in Unai Emery’s senior squad include Tim Iroegbunam and Jacob Ramsey.

After permanently departing Villa, players including Cameron Archer, Jack Grealish, Aaron Ramsey, and Carney Chukwuemeka now play Premier League football elsewhere.

After three games this season, Aston Villa’s Under-18 team, which competes at the highest level, is now third in the U18 Premier League.

The club’s youth setup also managed to win the FA Youth Cup in the 2020-21 campaign, beating Liverpool’s youngsters 2-1 in the final.

Aston Villa are no strangers to spending big money on youth recruits, with Scottish Under-18 stars Rory Wilson and Ewan Simpson both joining for huge fees in recent years.