Man United sign highly-rated Nick Powell from Crewe

Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign highly-rated 18-year-old attacking midfielder Nick Powell from Crewe Alexandra on a four-year contract. Even though the fee remains undisclosed, the BBC reported that an initial £3 million will be paid to Crewe, with another £3 million to be paid based on appearances and success. [caption id=“attachment_342157” align=“alignleft” width=“380” caption=“Nick Powell in action for Crewe. Photo credit: Manutd.com”]  [/caption] Alex Ferguson told the club website: “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 has represented England at the U-16 and 17 levels and his six foot frame has been a daunting presence for Crewe in attack. The player made his debut for Crewe as a 16-year-old in a League Two match against Cheltenham Town. Powell scored the opening goal in Crewe’s 2-0 League Two play-off final win against the same club. He also finished the season as their top scorer with 16 goals. Powell’s fine performances this season earned him all five of Crewe’s end of season awards. Powell himself seems pretty excited about a landmark move in his career: “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. I can’t wait to get started.”