Burnley Wonderkid Won't Join United

United were linked with a Ł1M bid for 14-year-old John Cofie, thought to be a special talent. But his club Burney won't let him go yet.

Football is a bit crazy nowadays. I mean, you would never have heard in the '70s that United had signed a 9-year-old player which is now not surprising for anyone.

Being linked with a 14-year-old won't even raise the fans' exebrows, I expect. It may be considered the perfectly normal way of reinforcing the future.

Now, to the hard facts: the boy's name is John Cofie, he's 14, he's a striker and Steve Cotterill had spotted him in a youth tournament in Germany last year. They brought him to England, paid for his schooling and are understandably reluctant to let him go just yet.

'A lot of clubs are looking at him, but he registered on forms with us so no one can nick him,' Cotteril told the Daily Mail.

'He is some player. He has pace to burn and has plenty of skill. He is a special talent for his age and that's why everyone wants him.'

Well, if he's really such a special talent they won't be able to keep hold on him for too long. If he turns out to waste his gifts, well, that would be a sad loss - for Burnley and English football.

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