It takes a huge amount of work before these deals can be agreed ...
... Sunderland seem to take a great deal of care with these young lads.
https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/...-deal-to-sign-glentoran-star/a1841994254.html
Sunderland are signing Glentoran’s exciting young winger Rhys Walsh after making a late bid for the 17-year-old in the transfer window.
The Championship outfit have been big admirers of the teenager and decided to move for Walsh now rather than wait until the summer with other English clubs showing interest in the Glentoran Academy graduate.
Walsh, who relishes running at opposition defenders, has played for the Glens first team on several occasions this season and impressed with his speed and skill. He has signed a two-and-a-half year deal for an undisclosed fee.
Oval boss Warren Feeney: “Obviously I have mixed feelings about losing Rhys as obviously he’s a player who I know would have gone on to do great things for Glentoran as he was already becoming a big favourite here.
"But on the other hand it’s a brilliant opportunity for Rhys as he’s joining a big club with a great record for developing young players and giving them their opportunity. Rhys is a very exciting player who can lift a game with his skill and directness, but he is also a strong and hard-working lad. I’m certain he’ll seize the opportunity and do very well there.
“Rhys is a perfect example of the strength of the Glentoran Academy. We currently have Johnny Russell and Aaron Wightman in the first team squad, Charlie Lindsay back from Derby County on loan and we have Casey Smyth out on loan to get experience with Dundela.