Manchester United last night announced the signing of Crewe Alexandra youngster Nick Powell for an undisclosed fee.
United are thought to have paid out an initial £3m for the 18-year-old England youth international, but that could potentially rise to £6m dependant on his success at Old Trafford.
Powell who was pictured with United’s Chief Executive David Gill yesterday has penned a four-year contract with the Red Devils.
Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted to have recruited the youngster and told ManUtd.com,
“We have scouted Nick for months now. He is an exceptional talent and has been schooled well at Crewe.”
“I’m delighted he has chosen to come to United. He has a lot to offer and we are all looking forward to working with him.”
Powell who has been linked with a move to the Premier League giants for months, said;
“It really is a dream come true to be signing for Manchester United.”
“I have had a great time at Crewe and I would like to thank them for helping me to develop as a player over the past 13 years. I’m excited about continuing my development with Sir Alex and the world-class players in the squad.”
“The thought of making the step up to the Premier League next season is an exciting prospect. I can’t wait to get started.”
Crewe Manager Steve Davis believes his former charge has the ability to develop into one of the top players in the country and that by signing for United it will only further his development as a player.
“Nick has shown everyone what a talent he possesses,” Davis told www.crewealex.net. “He got better as the season went on and played a vital role in us winning promotion.”
“He is a match winner and was deservedly named as our player-of-the-season for the contribution he made.”
“He has added goals to his game and I think he will only continue to improve and develop at a top club like Manchester United. If he can continue to progress then there is no reason why he cannot become the top player we all believe he can be.”
“Everyone at Crewe Alexandra is delighted that Nick has signed for Manchester United and we are pleased for him. I would like to personally thank him for helping us win promotion last season and we all wish him all the very best for the future.”
