Prolific Rangers youth striker Rory Wilson has officially left the Ibrox club as Aston Villa announce a deal for the 16-year-old poacher.
Wilson netted over 40 goals across the Rangers youth set-up this season and he is widely regarded as one of the best young Scottish talents around.
Naturally this had plenty of top English sides sniffing around but it was Aston Villa who were always earmarked as early favourites to conclude a deal.
Now, the Villains have taken to their official channels to make the deal public with Rangers reportedly said to be recouping £350k with a sell-on fee as part of their work in developing the kid.
Aston Villa announce signing of Rangers kid Rory Wilson
Speaking after signing the contract with Aston Villa, which will be transformational financially for the young man and his family, Wilson expressed his delight at the deal finally being done.
“Delighted to sign for Aston Villa! Massive thank you to @elliottf77, @peasomac9 and @CAABase for getting the deal sorted,” tweets Wilson.
“Honoured to be here and can’t wait to get started!”
According to Fabrizio Romano, ex-Rangers boss Steven Gerrard was also a key factor in getting the deal over the line amid interest from up to seven Premier League sides.
Rangers have however wasted no time in getting in youth reinforcements as the club invest heavily in the U18s and B team ahead of the new season.
Partick Thistle striker Cameron Cooper – himself subject to Premier League interest – has been signed by the club and will go some way softening the blow of losing Wilson.
The Gers have also announced the singing of Millwall youngster Zak Lovelace, a clear pathway to the first team seemingly enough to convince the teenager to sign over other Premier League options.
Meanwhile, Rangers are also closing in on a top team signing as an announcement approaches regarding an international option “itching” to move to Ibrox.
