Aston Villa swoop in for teen starlet Ben Chrisene

The 16-year-old midfielder was yesterday confirmed as the latest addition to the club’s youth ranks after joining from Exeter City for an undisclosed fee.

Chrisene became the League Two club’s youngest ever player when he featured against Coventry in the Carabao Cup and was also tracked by Premier League champions Liverpool.

But Villa, who have launched a drive to pack their academy with talented youngsters from the Midlands and beyond, were able to strike a deal.

Academy boss Mark Harrison said: “We are delighted to have secured Ben’s signature. He’s a very talented youngster who we are very pleased to have at the club.

“I would like to thank the owners, the board and the CEO for their support and for their ongoing backing in helping us to work towards our shared vision of a thriving and successful academy.”