14-year-old MLS star set for future Man City move
Cavan Sullivan with his family after signing for the club
- Published
A 14-year-old footballer has signed a record deal in the US, that includes a future move to Manchester City.
Teenager Cavan Sullivan has signed the largest homegrown contract in MLS history with the team Philadelphia Union.
Sullivan is thought to be one of the best young prospects in world football.
Although the details haven't been revealed, it's believed City have an agreement in place to sign the midfielder when he turns 18.
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Who is Cavan Sullivan?
Sullivan and his coaches at a press conference in the US
Cavan Sullivan is 14-years-old and is the youngest player ever to sign to Philadelphia Union's senior team.
He would become the competition's youngest ever player if he makes his debut before 29 July.
Sullivan has already made his professional debut though, playing for another of the club's teams, who are a step below the Union’s senior squad.
Philadelphia Union play in the Major League Soccer (also known as MLS). This is the top football league in the US, similar to the Premier League or Scottish Premier League in the UK.
The Union haven't disclosed how much Sullivan was signed for, but the contract is the largest the league has ever seen for a 'homegrown' player.
He's also the fifth youngest player to sign a first-team contract in MLS history.
As part of the deal, it's thought he'll move to Manchester City when he turns 18.
Why is he so sought after?
Coach Jim Curtin is welcoming the signing of 14-year-old Cavan Sullivan
Sullivan plays as an attacking midfielder and his performances have already caught the eye of many scouts, coaches and fans since he joined the club at 10-years-old.
In a press conference to mark the signing, his coach Jim Curtin said: "When he gets the ball, it's electric."
Sullivan spoke at the press conference too, saying he was honoured to make the deal at such a young age.
"I want to prove myself and work for this club in this city.”
Speaking to the Philadelphia Inquirer newspaper, Sullivan said: "Just the name Man City pops out to almost every kid, and they're the most fun team to watch in the world right now.
"I look up to and use players like Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden, to try and play like them."
