Hull City have submitted a six-figure bid for Northern Irish youngster Alfie Gaston, according to a report by Football Insider.
The 16-year-old sensation has already made a name for himself across the Irish Sea after making his senior debut at the age of 15 last May. With five senior appearances now under his belt, the promising midfielder’s situation has reportedly been monitored by a number of clubs in England’s top four divisions.
However, it now looks as though Hull are winning the race for his signature, after submitting a bid believed to be around the £150,000 mark. This bid illustrates an ambition to make an early move for Gaston, as he would not be able to sign a professional contract with The Tigers until he turns 17 this October.
The youngster has not been short of opportunities at Coleraine, his current club, with the manager reportedly being a big fan of the teenager’s ability to not look out of place in senior football.
A deal such as this could be a good indicator as to the sort of business the Humberside outfit are wishing to complete this summer and beyond under owner Acun Ilicali. In a window where a number of incomings and outgoings are expected, bringing youth through the door to bolster the ranks of the Academy could be perfect future-proofing for a side that will be hoping for a promotion to the top flight in the not-too-distant future.
Gaston may not be deemed a signing expected to make an immediate impact, but with current Profit and Sustainability Rules governing much of the activity of clubs at present, buying a young star with sell-on potential could be invaluable in a few years.
Writer’s View
The young teenager has clearly already impressed in his native Northern Ireland, so there is no reason why English clubs would not be looking at bringing the youngster over to their academies. With that market one that many are using, Hull should be no different.
There are clear aspirations at the MKM stadium to be in the Premier League sooner rather than later, and if any club wish to thrive in that environment, a thriving academy is a must. Therefore, this would be a great deal for both player and club alike.
